Embracing Your Unique CallingSmakprov

Leaving your comfort zone 

Jumping out of our comfort zones and into something new, something we can’t quite see yet—could there be a better definition of faith? 

Throughout the Bible, women and men left their comfort zones, pushed through the fear, and discovered amazing possibilities. We read of Noah in Genesis 6–9, who followed God’s call to build an enormous boat. His neighbors probably mocked him for it, might even have called him crazy. But what was the result of Noah’s obedience? He and his entire family were saved from the flood God brought to destroy the world.

Then there’s Mary, the mother of Jesus. Just a teenager—and unmarried at that—she obediently abandoned the comfort of her average life and agreed to carry the Son of God. Like Noah, she sacrificed her reputation, her pride, her everyday life. She sacrificed all of it for something greater, and as a result, she was the one to bring Jesus into the world.

Our sacrifices won’t top those of the biblical characters. You probably won’t have to trade your reputation for a hammer and nails, probably won’t have to build a giant escape ark. You won’t have to carry the Son of God.

Still, God will require us to step out of our comfort zones, step through our fears, and step into something we couldn’t previously have imagined. Outside our comfort zones—that’s where we’ll find God waiting.

Are you at a vocational crossroads? Maybe you’re considering taking a promotion, switching roles in your current company, or changing industries altogether. Perhaps you’re considering leaving the workforce to become a stay-at-home parent. Are you afraid of moving out of your comfort zone to pursue that next step? Does the prospect of failure or of doing something new scare you? Join the club. It’s not only normal; it’s expected. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with you if you feel fear, but God commands us to press through it, as he did in Joshua 1:9 when he instructed Joshua to take down the formidable walls of Jericho, saying, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you everywhere you go” (Joshua 1:9 NIV).

Spend some time considering what you’re being called to do vocationally (contemplate your unique gifts and talents). And, then focus on the BEST THING that can happen if you press into your fears and trust God with the next chapter of your life. 

It’s okay if you’re unready or you feel ill equipped or unqualified. That pretty much sums up everyone God called in the Bible. But know that when God calls you, he will equip you. As he told Joshua, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you” (Joshua 1:5 NIV).

Take that first step, press into your fear, and know that God will be with you everywhere you go.