Stepping Out: Embracing Growth Beyond Comfort Zones
Summary
### Summary
When I found out I was going to be speaking tonight, I felt both panic and pride. I asked God what He wanted me to say, and I felt led to speak about comfort. We all love to be comfortable, especially after a long, hard day. However, comfort is not a place we can stay in 24/7. God reminded me of a picture I had about two years ago at a prayer meeting. It was of an old, well-worn armchair, much like those comfortable but tattered pajamas or shoes we love. I felt God was saying that many of us are still sitting in that comfy armchair, just watching the world go by, but that we needed to get up because staying there was more harmful than good.
It's rare for someone to challenge us about being too comfortable. People might point out other issues, but rarely do they say, "You're too comfortable." Yet, being too comfortable can make us miss out on God's purpose for our lives. The Bible is full of accounts of uncomfortable situations where God moved in power. For instance, David and Goliath. David was called out of his comfort zone to face Goliath, and God provided everything he needed to win that fight. Following God outside of our comfort zones isn't always painless, but the intimacy with God we gain is worth every ounce of fear and doubt.
There have been many occasions when God has asked me to step out of my comfort zone. One significant instance was about six years ago when God moved us from our old church to this one. I was very comfortable at the old church, but God made it clear it was time to move. It was a quick journey; from the moment God spoke to us on a Wednesday, we said goodbye to everyone at the old church by Sunday, and the following Sunday, we walked through these doors. It was uncomfortable, but it was the right move because God was in it.
I'm not saying everyone should move churches, but I am asking if God is calling you to step into something new. If we hadn't listened to God, we wouldn't be here now, doing what He has asked us to do. Although it's uncomfortable for me to stand here, I'm stepping out of my comfort zone, trusting God, and being obedient. We need to allow God to move us out of our comfort zones. When we choose to partner with God, He blesses the works of our hands.
Psalm 90:17 says, "May the Lord our God show us His approval and make our efforts successful." If we do what God is asking, He is in it with us. God has amazing plans for each of our lives, beyond what we could ever imagine. It's time to rise out of our comfort zones and do the work He created us to do. Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
It might be fear or unmet expectations holding you back, but that's not a good reason to give up. Galatians 6:9 talks about receiving the beneficial outcomes of our hard work if we don't give up. Outside of our comfort zones is where we see God's power work through our weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness." Doing things outside our comfort zone can be scary, but through these experiences, we see God's strength working.
The comfort zone is a place where we aren't challenged and don't face our fears. It may be safe initially, but it stops us from growing into the full potential God has for us. Are you too comfortable where you are? Is God asking you to step out of that armchair and into something new? A few months after that initial prayer meeting, God gave me another picture of the armchair. Some people had returned to it, but God wanted them to burn it so they couldn't go back. Examine yourselves and what God is saying to you. If something I've said has spoken to you, come and get prayer. Taking that step out of your comfort zone will be the best thing you'll ever do because God has got you, and when you do it in His strength, that's where miracles happen.
### Key Takeaways
1. Comfort Can Be Harmful: While comfort is something we all enjoy, staying in a state of comfort can be more harmful than beneficial. It can prevent us from reaching our full potential and fulfilling God's purpose for our lives. We need to be willing to step out of our comfort zones to experience the fullness of what God has planned for us. [02:25]
2. God Moves in Uncomfortable Situations: The Bible is full of stories where God moved powerfully in uncomfortable situations. For example, David was called out of his comfort zone to face Goliath, and God provided everything he needed to win. When we step out in faith, God meets us there and provides what we need. [03:57]
3. Obedience Leads to Blessings: When God called us to move from our old church to this one, it was uncomfortable, but it was the right move because God was in it. Obedience to God's call, even when it leads us out of our comfort zones, results in blessings and fulfillment of His plans for us. [05:41]
4. God's Strength in Our Weakness: Outside of our comfort zones is where we see God's power work through our weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us that God's grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Stepping out in faith allows us to experience God's strength in new and profound ways. [09:18]
5. Burn the Armchair: God wants us to not only step out of our comfort zones but to burn the metaphorical armchair so we can't go back. This signifies a complete commitment to moving forward in God's plans without retreating to old, comfortable ways. Taking that step out of your comfort zone will be the best thing you'll ever do because God is always with you. [11:08]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:25] - Comfort Can Be Harmful
[03:57] - God Moves in Uncomfortable Situations
[05:41] - Obedience Leads to Blessings
[09:18] - God's Strength in Our Weakness
[11:08] - Burn the Armchair
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 90:17 - "May the Lord our God show us His approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful."
2. Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
3. 2 Corinthians 12:9 - "My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Psalm 90:17 ask of the Lord, and what is the desired outcome?
2. According to Ephesians 2:10, for what purpose were we created in Christ Jesus?
3. How does 2 Corinthians 12:9 describe God's grace and strength in relation to our weaknesses?
4. In the sermon, what was the significance of the old, well-worn armchair? [01:37]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of God making our efforts successful (Psalm 90:17) relate to stepping out of our comfort zones? [07:19]
2. What does it mean to be God's workmanship created for good works, and how does this challenge us to move beyond comfort? [08:06]
3. How can understanding that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9) help us face uncomfortable situations? [09:03]
4. Why might God want us to "burn the armchair" and not return to our comfort zones? [10:45]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God was calling you to step out of your comfort zone. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? [06:00]
2. Are there areas in your life where you feel too comfortable? What steps can you take to move out of that comfort zone and trust God more? [09:18]
3. How can you apply the principle of God's strength being made perfect in your weakness to a current challenge you are facing? [09:11]
4. What are some practical ways you can seek God's approval and make your efforts successful in your daily life? [07:27]
5. Identify a specific "armchair" in your life that you need to "burn" to prevent returning to old, comfortable ways. How can you commit to this change? [10:45]
6. How can you encourage others in your small group to step out of their comfort zones and pursue the good works God has prepared for them? [08:06]
7. What fears or unmet expectations are holding you back from fully trusting God's plan for your life? How can you address these obstacles with faith? [08:20]
Devotional
### Day 1: The Danger of Comfort
Comfort is something we all naturally seek, especially after a long, hard day. However, staying in a state of comfort can be more harmful than beneficial. It can prevent us from reaching our full potential and fulfilling God's purpose for our lives. When we become too comfortable, we may miss out on the opportunities God has prepared for us. The Bible is full of accounts where God called people out of their comfort zones to accomplish His will. Just like the old, well-worn armchair in the sermon, our comfort zones can become places where we stagnate and fail to grow.
God wants us to step out of our comfort zones and trust Him. When we do, we open ourselves up to experiencing the fullness of what He has planned for us. It might be challenging and even scary, but the rewards are worth it. God has amazing plans for each of our lives, beyond what we could ever imagine. It's time to rise out of our comfort zones and do the work He created us to do. [02:25]
Isaiah 43:18-19 (ESV): "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you have become too comfortable? What steps can you take today to move out of your comfort zone and trust God more fully?
### Day 2: God Moves in Uncomfortable Situations
The Bible is full of stories where God moved powerfully in uncomfortable situations. For instance, David was called out of his comfort zone to face Goliath, and God provided everything he needed to win that fight. When we step out in faith, God meets us there and provides what we need. These moments of discomfort are often where we see God's power and presence most clearly. They are opportunities for us to grow in our faith and trust in Him.
God doesn't call us to a life of comfort but to a life of purpose. When we are willing to step out of our comfort zones, we allow God to work through us in ways we never thought possible. The intimacy with God we gain through these experiences is worth every ounce of fear and doubt. [03:57]
Joshua 1:9 (ESV): "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt God calling you to do something uncomfortable. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? How can you apply that experience to your current situation?
### Day 3: Obedience Leads to Blessings
When God called us to move from our old church to this one, it was uncomfortable, but it was the right move because God was in it. Obedience to God's call, even when it leads us out of our comfort zones, results in blessings and fulfillment of His plans for us. It might be challenging to leave behind what is familiar and comfortable, but when we trust and obey God, He blesses the works of our hands.
Psalm 90:17 says, "May the Lord our God show us His approval and make our efforts successful." If we do what God is asking, He is in it with us. God has amazing plans for each of our lives, beyond what we could ever imagine. It's time to rise out of our comfort zones and do the work He created us to do. [05:41]
Deuteronomy 28:1-2 (ESV): "And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God."
Reflection: Is there something God is asking you to do that feels uncomfortable? How can you take a step of obedience today, trusting that God will bless your efforts?
### Day 4: God's Strength in Our Weakness
Outside of our comfort zones is where we see God's power work through our weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us that God's grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Stepping out in faith allows us to experience God's strength in new and profound ways. When we are weak, He is strong, and His power is made evident in our lives.
Doing things outside our comfort zone can be scary, but through these experiences, we see God's strength working. It's in these moments of vulnerability and dependence on God that we grow the most in our faith. We learn to rely on His strength rather than our own, and we see His power at work in ways we never could have imagined. [09:18]
Isaiah 40:29-31 (ESV): "He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you feel weak or inadequate? How can you invite God's strength into those areas and trust Him to work through your weaknesses?
### Day 5: Burn the Armchair
God wants us to not only step out of our comfort zones but to burn the metaphorical armchair so we can't go back. This signifies a complete commitment to moving forward in God's plans without retreating to old, comfortable ways. Taking that step out of your comfort zone will be the best thing you'll ever do because God is always with you.
The comfort zone is a place where we aren't challenged and don't face our fears. It may be safe initially, but it stops us from growing into the full potential God has for us. Are you too comfortable where you are? Is God asking you to step out of that armchair and into something new? Examine yourselves and what God is saying to you. If something has spoken to you, take that step out of your comfort zone and trust that God has got you. [11:08]
Philippians 3:13-14 (ESV): "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to "burn the armchair" and fully commit to moving forward in God's plans? What practical steps can you take today to make that commitment?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When we look at the Bible, it's full of accounts of uncomfortable situations, but in those uncomfortable situations God moves in power. For instance, David and Goliath. Now, David with God was nothing compared to Goliath, but God called him out for that time to actually win that fight. So no matter what God calls us into, He'll provide everything that we need because He's with us. It's not always going to be painless to follow God outside of our comfort zones, but what you get in return by leaning on Him is worth every ounce of that fear and doubt being gone because when we have the intimacy with God, we will eradicate all that fear and doubt." [03:57]
2. "The comfort zone is the place where we aren't challenged and there's no pressure to face our fears. It may be a safe place to begin with but it will stop us from growing into the full potential that God has for us. So I just want to ask you a couple of questions for you to think about and I'm just going to give you a moment and like I said it is just for you to think about. Are you too comfortable where you are at the moment? Is God asking you to get out of that armchair or whatever that place of comfort is and for you to step into something that he has for you?" [09:18]
3. "Doing things outside our comfort zone at first would be the scariest thing but we need to remember that through these experiences we will see God's strength working. The comfort zone is the place where we aren't challenged and there's no pressure to face our fears. It may be a safe place to begin with but it will stop us from growing into the full potential that God has for us." [09:18]
4. "Taking that step out of your comfort zone will actually be the best thing that you'll ever do because God's always got you and he's always going to catch you and when you do it in his strength and not your own that's where miracles happen." [11:08]
### Quotes for Members
1. "When we choose to partner with God, he blesses the works of our hands. In Psalms 9 to verse 17, it says, 'Amai the Lord, our God, show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful.' So if we actually do what God is asking, he's in it with us. God has amazing plans for each and every life, beyond whatever we, beyond what we could ever imagine. And it's time for us to rise out of our comfort zones and do the work he created us to do." [07:19]
2. "If we wanted to stay comfortable, we would have stayed there, where it was familiar, familiar people, surroundings and everything. But so if we hadn't listened to God, we wouldn't be here. We wouldn't have taken ourselves out of that comfort into this uncomfortable place, especially makers, I hate being uncomfortable, as you can probably tell right now. But if we hadn't listened and obeyed God, where would we be now?" [05:41]
3. "Outside of our comfort zones is where we get to see God's power work through our weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12 verse 9, this is the message version but I just relives the words. 'My grace is enough, it's all you need, my strength comes into its own in your weakness' and that's just so true." [09:18]
4. "To finish I just want to share another picture that God gave me a few months later after that prayer meeting. It was of that armchair again and it was that some people had actually returned to that armchair and they were just sitting there back in comfort letting the world go by but God was saying that he didn't want them there, he wants them to get back out of it but not only did he want them to get out he wanted them to actually burn it so they couldn't go back to that place again that they would just walk in what God has for them." [11:08]
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