Greetings!

This week, I am being stretched out of my comfort zone once again. I don’t know why I keep calling it a “comfort zone,” I haven’t had one in a long time. I guess it just makes me feel good to think that I do.

A couple of weeks ago I was asked to volunteer for an event at my church—not to help out—but, to lead it. Thank God, they did give me a co-chair (I guess they must have seen the look of terror in my eyes). The funny thing is…I knew it was coming. Not this particular event, but some event…somewhere. God has been preparing me for it for a long time.

He had been using the director of our Women’s Ministry group to stretch me to do things I normally never would have done. I remember dragging my feet whenever she would ask me to speak in front of a group, or teach a class. I tried to look self-assured, and in control, but I really felt exposed. Like, everyone could see my thoughts, and knew how terrified I really felt.

At first, I was so afraid that I would physically shake. I used to hold the mic against my chest so that no one would see my hand shake.  Then, as I became more comfortable with holding it, I would use it like a pointer. It was awful. But, I grew to trust God during those times. He made His presence real to me. God had to show me what I was capable of when I would let “self” get out of the way.

I think 1 Chronicles 16:11 sums it up nicely, “Depend on the Lord and his strength; always go to him for help” (NCV). Whenever I am afraid, or unsure about anything, I go to Him. I know that He holds my future in His hands, and He will give me the strength, and courage I need to do whatever it is He has called me to do. That’s His promise…and I believe Him.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”   –Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

Until next time…

Be blessed!