Especially as an introvert who hates change, stepping out of comfort is definitely not an easy task, nor will the courage come exactly when you need it to. It's difficult to try new things because we just get comfortable and want to stay where we are. If we stay with the same friends, we won't have to meet new people. If we stay with the same job, we won't have to stress about finding a new one. If we stay in the same daily routine, we won't ever become lost. Although we tell ourselves these things, there may be a point in our life where a change in necessary and it just has to happen.
This is a perfect time to reflect on everything God has brought us to and remember how he brought us out of it. It's amazing just how much we can see his grace in everyday things. Once we step out of our typical routines, even just a little bit, we can begin to go further.
We get a clear idea of what God's comfort is like in Psalm 23.
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4
We can be filled with joy in these uncomfortable situations because we can trust that many good things will come out of it. We will grow in our knowledge and understanding. When we step into something we never thought we would do, it's terrifying. But, that gives us more reason to grow closer to God and trust him more than we ever have before.
In Matthew 14, the bible tells the story of Jesus walking on water.
"Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!" Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” Matthew 14:24-31
We learn here that fear can settle in us so quickly. One thing that stops many people from stepping out of their comfort zone is the fear of making mistakes. But that's what we learn from. It's okay to make mistakes.
My advice for you and for myself is to go out and try something new. Learn from it, grow from it. Who knows, maybe you will end up loving it. As long as we are living to serve God, step out of your comfort zone every once in a while.
