Have you ever felt God nudge you to do something so out of the norm, so unexpected, you frantically searched for a “unless” clause? There have been countless times when God’s dropped me in something I felt ill-equipped or ill-prepared for, but looking back, those have been the times when I’ve felt closest to God and when I’ve learned the most. And each time, standing on the other side having seen God moved, I’ve been so grateful I said yes. Because God never called us to a stagnant life. Rather, He calls us to full surrender, unhindered obedience. Today my sweet friend and 
fellow Living by Grace hostess Maria Morgan shares a time when God thrust her out of her comfort zone and what she learned from it.
Stepping Out of the Zone by Maria Morgan
My comfort zone. It’s aptly named, because it’s where I feel comfortable. I’m familiar with the people and places within this zone. I know what to expect. I can be myself and not risk rejection. It’s a safe place.
Recently, my husband, Steve, and I travelled to North Carolina for a charity golf tournament. The event was sponsored by Steve’s company, and was attended by over a hundred people. People I didn’t know.
I was definitely outside my comfort zone. And to add to my discomfort, my lack of expertise in the area of golf left me wondering what to discuss with them. Would we have anything in common?
Be a friend
I wouldn’t classify myself as shy. But I don’t normally go out of my way to meet strangers either.
As the first dinner party got under way, I remembered some words of wisdom from Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly…” (Proverbs 18:24; KJV). That was something I could do – be pleasant and welcoming, and show a genuine interest in those to whom I was introduced. I stepped outside my ‘zone.’
Focus on others
Over the next couple days, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people, and realized an advantage of leaving my comfort zone. I was focused on others, and no longer concentrating on what was convenient for me.
On our drive back to Georgia, Steve and I talked about the importance of getting together with others. As Christians, we’re instructed to be “…given to hospitality,” (Romans 12:13b).
Make time for what’s important
We were conscious of the fact that we had allowed our schedules to prevent us from following through on this directive. When we realized what we’d been missing, it wasn’t difficult to get out the calendar and begin planning to invite friends and acquaintances over for a time of fun and fellowship.
Are you stuck in your comfort zone? What step are you willing to take today to move beyond what’s comfortable?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for challenging me to step out in faith beyond my comfort zone. Your Word provides wisdom for every situation. Help me to practice hospitality with those you bring across my path. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
*Maria I. Morgan is an inspirational writer and speaker. She’s passionate about sharing the truths of God’s Word with today’s generation. She lives in Georgia with her husband and daughter. Visit her on the web and download a free copy of her eBook God Speaking @ www.mariaimorgan.com.
Let’s talk about this!
When has God asked you to step outside your comfort zone, and what were the results? Share your thoughts and God-moments with us in the comments below or join the Facebook discussion at Living by Grace.
Thanks so much for the opportunity to guest post, Jen! God bless you~
I don’t like to come out of my comfort zone either. Some people find a rush in it, but I do NOT. I am working part time now and that was a place where God definately dropped me and I am trying to adjust. I am not a huge social person and believe it or not, found myself even more LESS SOCIAL when I was looking for a new church. Isn’t that the place where we should feel the most comfortable? Hum….Thanks for the post. I really liked it. Beth