Wednesday's Waking Thoughts: 'ComfortZone" pt.2

     I have been challenged to break out of my comfort zone lately.  But I have also been challenged in another way.  Breaking out of it in a "non-comfortable" way.  Confused?  So was I, but here's what I've figured out.
     Usually when I want to "break out" I change up my workout.  It's safe and pretty much guaranteed to be a success.  But I wasn't really breaking out.  In order to break out risk needs to be involved.  If I am guaranteed a success, I'm not really taking a risk.  I am pretty secure in fitness & nutrition, so while it is doing my body good, I haven't really changed my situation. 
     The thing is if we are really risking it all, we have to rely on God to get us through.  That is what He is asking of me: to do it through His power, not in my own.  Realizing that I am better if I surrender to God and release all the 'control' I think I have over my life, is a daily process for me.  I continually pray, "I can't do this.  I am not [strong, smart, talented,etc.] enough.  God if you want me to do this then You need to move through me.  I give up!"  And I do.
     So for me the challenge has been to figure out in which areas I need to take a risk in order to become "uncomfortable" and rely on Him.  That is what I have been trying to do these last few months. 
     Remember my fears of rejection and failure?  I have decided to face the head on.  I have shared my infertility & breast cancer story with a large group at my church and through FB and twitter.  I have reached out to make new friends.  I have started taking Bible Studies and training in areas that really stretch and challenge me-ALOT! And you know what?  Although I face rejection and failure in these areas, God had carried me through and I am finding that I enjoy life so much more by getting out of my comfort zone!  My confidence is better, I am feeling bolder and am seeing success in areas that I hadn't before.
     But now I am becoming comfortable here, so I am already looking for other areas of growth, so I can step out and stretch! Good bye again, comfort zone!

Wednesday's Waking Thoughts: 'ComfortZone" pt. 1

     Good Wednesday Morning. 

     Today I woke up with a thought running around in my head.  I came from something I said in a conversation on Monday.  The thought is, "Our comfort zone is where the enemy does his best work."  Why?  Because we become complacent, comfortable, unmotivated. I spent many years living in my comfort zone and the enemy had a field day keeping me there.  He loves head games...I was afraid of failure, making a fool of myself, rejection.  Not a 'comfortable' place to be after all, is it?  I think our comfort zone is where the enemy is MOST comfortable!

     Over the last few months, I have done nothing but live OUTSIDE my comfort zone.  And it has been amazing.  I've taken risks and they've paid off.  I've made myself vulnerable and instead of being mocked or hurt, I've been surrounded by an amazing group of people and friends.  That's the last thing he wants-ME.  Confident, bold, strong, and walking with a group of people who are the same.  Not so comfy now, are you enemy?????

     I love watching the enemy squirm!   :0)