Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone: The Call to Radical Faith

In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves at a crossroads. God invites us to step out of our comfort zones, to leave behind the familiar and venture into new territories of spiritual growth. But what holds us back? What makes us hesitate when we hear that divine call to move forward?

Two powerful stories from the Bible illustrate contrasting responses to Jesus' invitation. First, we have Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector despised by his community. When Jesus passed through Jericho, Zacchaeus, despite his short stature, was determined to see Him. Climbing a sycamore tree, he positioned himself to catch a glimpse of the Savior. Jesus, seeing his eagerness, invited Himself to Zacchaeus' house. The response was immediate and transformative. Zacchaeus pledged to give half his possessions to the poor and repay fourfold anyone he had cheated. Jesus declared, "Today salvation has come to this house."

In stark contrast, we have the story of the rich young ruler. This man approached Jesus, seeking the path to eternal life. He had followed the commandments diligently but sensed something was missing. Jesus, recognizing his potential, invited him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. Unlike Zacchaeus, this man walked away sorrowful, unable to let go of his wealth and status.

These stories prompt us to ask: What's holding us back from fully embracing God's call? Are we more like Zacchaeus, ready to radically change our lives, or the rich young ruler, hesitant to let go of our comfort and security?

Often, our reservations stem from three main concerns:

1. Worrying about what others will say. We fear judgment, ridicule, or rejection if we fully commit to following Christ. However, Proverbs 29:25 reminds us, "The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe." Our primary concern should be pleasing God, not pleasing people. As Jesus said in Matthew 10:28, "Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell." This isn't meant to instill fear, but to realign our priorities. The opinions of others fade in significance when compared to our eternal relationship with God.
2. Fear of appearing too radical. In a world that often values moderation, the idea of being "radical" for Christ can be intimidating. Yet, throughout history, it's the "radicals" – those fully committed to God – who have made the most significant impact. Romans 12:1-2 calls us to be "living sacrifices," not conforming to the world but being transformed by the renewal of our minds. This transformation isn't about fitting in; it's about standing out as bearers of God's image. As 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 describes, we are to be the "aroma of Christ," a fragrance that will attract some and repel others. Our goal isn't to be palatable to everyone but to be faithful to our calling.
3. Anxiety about change. Change is baked in to the Christian journey. The process of sanctification – becoming more like Christ – involves continuous transformation. Ephesians 4:20-24 urges us to "put off your old self" and "put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness." This change, while sometimes uncomfortable, is ultimately for our good and God's glory. Unlike our unchanging, perfect Savior (Hebrews 13:8), we are imperfect beings in need of ongoing refinement.

Embracing God's call to step out in faith doesn't mean we won't experience fear or uncertainty. It means choosing to move forward despite these feelings, trusting in God's guidance and provision. When we say "yes" to God's invitations – big or small – we open ourselves to joy, transformation, and a deeper experience of salvation. Conversely, when we say "no," we often find ourselves, like the rich young ruler, walking away in sorrow.

The Christian life isn't about dabbling in faith; it's an all-in proposition. It's about presenting ourselves as "living sacrifices" (Romans 12:1), ready to go where God leads, even when the destination is unclear. This level of commitment may seem daunting, but it's in these moments of stepping out that we experience God's power and presence the most.

As we consider our own lives, let's ask ourselves: What's holding us back from fully embracing God's call? Are we worried about others' opinions? Fearful of appearing too radical? Anxious about change? Whatever our concerns, we can take comfort in knowing that God's transformative work in our lives is always for our good and His glory.

Let's challenge ourselves to be more like Zacchaeus – eager to encounter Jesus, ready to change, and willing to let go of whatever holds us back. When we do, we may find that the very things we feared losing become insignificant compared to the joy and fulfillment of following Christ wholeheartedly.

In a world that often settles for mediocrity, let's dare to be radical for Christ. Let's step out of our comfort zones, leave behind our fears and hesitations, and embark on the adventure of faith that God is calling us to. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards – a deeper relationship with God, a life of purpose, and the joy of seeing His work through us – are immeasurable.

Are you ready to step out of the boat and onto the water? The invitation is extended. How will you respond?