COMFORT Zone

     As our Bible study finishes up the book Unstuff we have often discussed the issue of comfort zone.  With ages ranging from early 30's to late 60's we seem to agree that we do like our comfort zones.  If we are too hot or too cold we adjust the thermostat for our physical comfort.
      What about our spiritual comfort zone?  What keeps us within the boundaries of it?   If we are unsure about some one's beliefs, we stay in our comfort zone and may not speak God's Word of Truth or encouragement to them. We don't want to be seen as intolerant or fanatical so we keep quiet.
    Yet, if we simply read the Gospels, we clearly see that the Followers of Jesus stepped out of their comfort zones and many lost their lives for it. Even Jesus, although He was God, stepped way out of His comfort zone when He willingly went to the Cross.
     I admit that I LIKE my comfort zones, physically and spiritually, and I do not always follow that Voice that tells me "you need to step out in faith."  Where is it that you need to step out of your comfort zone to make a difference in some one's life?  Simply look to the Word of God to give you the ability to do that. 
       I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.   Philippians 4:13
 
Image from zazzle.com

Just do it !!!

     As this day of Easter is winding down, I pray you were blessed by time with family & friends & the sweet fellowship of others who rejoice that He is RISEN !!!!!  I posted this pic on Facebook with the comment: "If you know someone who still "doesn't get it", share the Good News !!!"  I also gave the card to my friend Sally & labeled her as the woman speaking. The problem is I  struggle with "not getting it" fully.  I believe we cannot completely comprehend what God did for us through the sacrifice of His Son but I know I am eternally grateful.

     So what's the issue?  Well, as I shared in my last post, I am in the progress of unstuffing but mainly in the material things & not in the use of my time.  Paul stated in Romans 7 - I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do,  I do not do....For I have the desire to do what is good but I cannot carry it out.

     Those things I wanted to do in my neighborhood leading up to Easter I did not do. It wasn't that I couldn't do it, I just didn't.  I ponder what missed opportunity is now gone that may have brought someone to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. This is the place where I am grateful that Lamentations says "His mercies are new every morning."  Easter is the GREATEST evidence that grace abounds for sinners.  May we have the boldness to make that gift known to others.  Those missed opportunities can be that moment of eternal life or death for someone.  Why would I not want to tell them?

     II Timothy 1:8,9  So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me His prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God,  who has saved us & called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose & grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time...

When in doubt,  JUST DO IT, make no excuses.

(image by Inherit the Mirth)