Introduction:
Many things in life require us to step outside of our comfort zone. Some of us might be in a position right now where you have to make a decision that, frankly, scares you. we might be taking on a new responsibility but we might lack the experience and yet Providence has placed before us an opportunity. Many times we might try to make decisions where we won’t have to experience discomfort; or take the path of least resistance. But today we will be looking at strong reasons why you should step into discomfort today.
1 Does the Lord expect us to do His work by our own power and strength? Matthew 28:18-20 (opens in new tab due to long verse)
Note: Was the great commission Jesus gave us say go ye therefore and avoid all nations? because talking to strangers is uncomfortable or trying new things makes us afraid? No. Christ has said, “all power is given unto me in heaven and in earth..” It is By His power that strengthens you to go and teach all nations. Your message matters.
2 Will the Lord require us to step out of our comfort zone to do this great work? 2 Timothy 2:2-3
Note: Some might believe that because Christ took up the cross, that it means we don’t have to; But taking up the cross was an example, a PATTERN for us to follow in the footsteps of Christ’s sufferings. But by His grace, we can endure and overcome the hardness and uncomfortableness.
3 But doesn’t the Lord call only those who are qualified or have mastered their talents to use in His work? Exodus 4:10-12 (opens in new tab due to long verse)
Note: You might have heard us say this quite a bit in the ministry: God doesn’t call the qualified, He qualifies the called. You might have a conviction, a message that you need to give, or a service, and God is calling you to share but you might feel uncomfortable or feel unqualified to do it; But has God called us to be comfortable? He will give you the words to say and help you strengthen the skills you need.
4 When is the only time we grow or make progress in anything? Hebrews 5:14
Note: If it doesn’t challenge you, it will never change you. Strength is gained through exercise. Exercise is painful and hard, and often challenges you, but if you don’t use your strength, you will lose it. If it doesn’t challenge you, you will not experience growth. We have two options: we can have comfort, or we can have growth, but you cannot have both at the same time. Nothing changes if nothing changes.
5 What biblical, natural law governs the results in our life and How are we able to change those results? Galatians 6:7
Note: If you are unhappy with the results you have now, or you’re trying to learn a new skill the only way is to try something different, and a lot of times those new different things will cause discomfort.
6 In what state of action should we be in when the Lord gives us clarity in life? John 12:35
Note: Action breeds clarity. We might be confused, but what if we shifted our focus, and changed the questions we ask ourselves. What do you know, what do you understand, and what do you have? (see Exodus 4:2) 9 times out of ten, if we just used what we have, the resources that are available to us now, God will be willing to accept that and help us through any obstacle we have or may go through.
7 If we use that light and walk in it, what potential do we give that light? Proverbs 4:18
Note: How many of us want a bigger comfort zone? In all reality, if you’re not growing, you’re dying. progress equals happiness and fulfillment. There is no standing in the light. It is a continual advancement. You either make progress or you fall back from the light.
8 What if we are too discouraged, we don’t think others will hear our message, and doing God’s work scares us? Romans 10:14-15 (opens in new tab due to long verse)
Note: Everything you want is just outside your comfort zone. Think about it, can you think of one thing that you really want that is inside your comfort zone? If there is no cross, there is no crown. It is because Christ took the cross that we are able to become kings and priests before God. God will give us the skills, the qualifications, etc. If not me, who? if not now, when? You can speak, you can publish. Where would we be if someone didn’t step out of their comfort zones and shared with us?
9 What is the cross of a Christian? Galatians 5:24
Note: Our cross is the fighting against our natural inclination. Oftentimes, our preference is to go the path of least resistance. But that is your cross; your test. A test of discipleship. That is where Christ sees the serious, and only the professors. Who is willing to bear burdens? Paul said, I die daily. Every day he did something challenging. He was daily, stepping out of his comfort zone. Do something every day that scares you and you will find a joy and peace that you’ve never experienced in your comfort zone. Every day ask yourself, “How can I live outside my comfort zone?”
10 What should be our ultimate reason for stepping out of our comfort zone? Revelation 1:5-6 (opens in new tab due to long verse)
Note: Our ultimate reason for stepping out of our comfort zone should be because Christ stepped out of His comfort zone for us. He could have come as an earthly king and lived in ease, but He didn’t. Instead, He chose a life of sacrifice. He was treated as we deserve, so we can be treated as He deserved. (See John 3:16) Dedicate your life because Christ gave everything for you. What can you give to Him?
In Light of God’s Word…
Is it your desire to stand up for Jesus by stepping out of your comfort zone today?
Is it your decision to do the uncomfortable, to do something that scares you each day? What uncomfortable thing will you do for Jesus? What are you willing to commit today?
Today’s Offer:
If it is your desire to step out of your comfort zone for Christ and commit to serving Him while serving others by sharing His word, consider enlisting as a squad leader! To step up today, go to: Thearmyofyouth.com/leaders
If you would like to support this Army of Youth in uplifting and training others for the Lord’s service, please go to: Thearmyofyouth.com/outreach