After several neglectful years of hanging up in my garage, I began riding my bike again. I first noticed how much quicker I reached three miles than when I ran, and it made me appreciate the effort I put into my runs that much more.
But here’s the thing – it took some convincing to get me out the door and on it again. I wanted to ride it, but I kept telling myself it would be weird to ride by myself. I spent a good part of the day with the lyrics “I want to ride my bicycle. I want to ride my bike” by Queen stuck in my head, but I did nothing about it. I don’t think I have ridden alone very much, even as a child, except for the trips to and from my cousin’s house around the curve so that we could ride together.
The last time I had ridden was with my son when he lived with me, so for some reason, it just seemed strange for me to go for a ride solo. But once I finally convinced myself to do it anyway – it was so much fun! I wouldn’t have known this if I stayed in the house and let those thoughts keep me from trying.
We can miss many blessings by staying in our comfort zones and not going when and where God leads us. I am guilty of that as well, putting off that thing God is nudging me to do because it might feel strange or weird. But we’ll never appreciate the effort that goes into it or experience the joy it brings if we never do it. I am learning to listen to that still, small voice and get out of my comfort zone even when I don’t feel capable.
We are not to measure our abilities by our own strength but by the One sending us.
What is that thing you’ve been putting off that God is nudging you to do? Is it talking to that person down the street or helping that neighbor in their yard? Maybe it’s volunteering at church or visiting the local nursing home – you fill in the blanks – but know, whatever it is, getting out of our comfort zone in these areas is a good experience and will bless us way more than the other person. I bet you will even have fun!
“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness” (2 Cor. 12, NLT emphasis added).
“The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy” (Ps. 28:7, NLT emphasis added).
Faith Walk Ministries, Inc. 