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Have you ever noticed how repetitive and redundant our days, our weeks, our months seem? Almost like they seem to d r a g on? We consistently rely on the pattern of our routine to somehow get us through as if it’s what we actually need to sustain us. How come that is? How come we find ourselves being so comfortable with being comfortable? Those have been my thoughts lately, as this semester has seemed to fly by yet still lag in some ways. As often as I find myself comfortable in the routine that I create, I likewise find myself in this “Christian comfort zone.” I tend to cling to the things that make me feel secure rather than seek opportunities to advance the gospel in ways that may I may need to get out of my comfort zone. Yes, God wraps us up and keeps us close to him but what amazing things are we missing out on when, while we cling to him, we disregard reaching the unbroken and lost. Maybe that looks like spending quality time with those in our suite, those we pass on our walk to class, or that potential study partner sitting next to us in class. Or, what if we actually went beyond school or with our friends and went into the community, our country, or the world?
“I came to you in my weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” 1 Corinthians 2:3-5
Initially, the idea of separating myself from comfort honestly terrified me. I experienced that feeling coming to CNU by leaving my family and friends. I’ve experienced that insecurity going on mission trips over the years and wondering if I could make an impact. Even just expressing my faith in public has been hard at times. It was through fervent prayer that I asked God to peal back the insecurity of not feeling worthy of sharing the gospel and replace it with boldness to live as an example. I think this verse in 1 Corinthians helped me realize that although I was fearful, through the power of the holy spirit, God used my insecurities to bring glory to him, not only through my faith but also through trusting that God had and still has the power to change my heart and use me in incredible ways.
Think about this.
How often do we find ourselves voluntary seeking a task out of our comfort zone, taking a risk, or being adventurous? I’d like to consider myself a “master” at all of those things but it just isn’t the case. Don’t get me wrong; I love having a good time, being silly and carefree with the ones closest to me but I’m much more content with the “knowns” in life rather then the “unknowns.” Fear of the unknown has always been a struggle and it hasn’t been until recently that I’ve learned to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Instinctively, I think God instilled these qualities in me so that he may be glorified later through growth in learning about his character and the message of how he has called us to simply GO. His creation is so incredibly unique and everyone in some capacity has the capability to learn and apply the idea of going out of our comfort zone in any aspect of life. IN HIS TIMING, I have truly been convicted of how comfortable I have become in my faith and through Cru I have been reminded of the calling that each and every one of us have to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth with faith and boldness. We share the gospel to BRING GLORY TO GOD. How incredible is that. It’s ultimately an act of worship and of course God deserves ALL of the praise for the amazing gift he gave to us…his son JESUS. God made us as relational beings and we are in communication with people every single day. Our love for the Lord should be an overflow of the unconditional love he has shown to us.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.”
1 Peter 4:10-11.
“We are therefore (having been reconciled through Christ) ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20
Not only has God uniquely and divinely given us each a special talent, but also he has specifically called us to use them. Some of us are more adventurous, some enjoy speaking in public and some of us are more reserved. Regardless, it is by God’s grace that we have become ambassadors. That’s right an ambassador. Through the Holy Spirit we have been accredited with the capability to spread the good news everywhere, whether we are comfortable or not. That’s the beauty of it. God provides in amazing ways. Even sitting here typing this I’m still in awe of this incredible gift.
Do I still feel insecure sometimes? Sure. Do I still wonder if I’m worthy? Yes. Do I often fall into routine and comfort? Of course. It is my humble prayer in my life and in yours that we seek ways to glorify God outside of what we know to be comfortable. There is so much joy in wondering what he could do to transform our hearts and our minds. I think Green River Ordinance says it well in their song Better Love. CHECK IT OUT.
“Faith is not an idle grace
Guide my fears and lead my way
The darkest heart that you have saved
I can’t find a better love.”
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Hey y'all! My name is Lindsey Tate and I'm from a little town just north of Richmond called Ashland, Va. I am a Psychology major with a double minor in Leadership and Childhood Studies. This is also my second year leading a Bible study with Cru. My passion is education and desiring for children to love learning so I'm currently applying to the Masters in Teaching Program that CNU offers. Some of my hobbies include watching (and re-watching ) episodes of Friends, playing piano, scrapbooking/crafting, exploring Pinterest, watching sports & most importantly spending time with family and friends. I hope that the words that I share are uplifting and encouraging to you just as they are to me. God is teaching me so much this year and it's truly an honor to be able to share my thoughts with you.
