UNCOMFORTABLE

Have you thanked Him?

Have you praised Him?

Have you made it your priority to agree and cooperate with Him today?

Have you taken that deep breath and listened for what He has for you today?

1 Timothy 2:1 (The Message)

^1-3The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know.

I have this young lady who I admire a ton.

She has the most supple and receptive heart. She is a “carer” to the core.

Now I know that "carer" isn’t a word, at least the little red squiggly on my computer says it isn’t, but it is a good descriptor of my friend. She loves people. She especially loves "my folks", those who are experiencing the ragged edge of life, and those who are thirsting for something fresh and new.

You know those folks who really need Jesus.

So last night as she was leading worship at FREEDOM this loving spirit, this heart for worship, this “caring” character was clearly flowing and as she pressed in to what the Holy Spirit had for us last night, the evening took an extraordinary turn.

Extraordinary but “uncomfortable” as well.

Let me explain.

She challenged those in attendance to get up during worship and seek GOD in prayer. She challenged the FREEDOM leaders to step into the role of intercessors and prayer partners. She pressed the assembly to put down their fears and apprehensions and allow GOD to move in them personally and intimately.

And for many that was an “uncomfortable” request. It wasn't in the script. It hadn't been planned out. It wasn't what usually happens at FREEDOM. And while some remained in their seats a little perplexed by the goings on, others came forward and offered themselves to GOD and allowed GOD to have them for just a second and to minister to them individually.

It was remarkable. It really was.

The truth is most folks seeking recovery like their “comfort zones”; they like the expected. Give them their 12 steps and 12 traditions; throw in a serenity prayer and a cup of coffee and they are good to go. Start shaking things up a little and you could sense the uncertainty. But GOD stirred many out of their doldrums and changed their night!

But recoverers aren't alone. We all like our “comfort zones” don’t we?

There is comfort in the routine and the expected.

But GOD challenges each of us every day to “step out of our comfort and into HIS CALLING" on our lives. And that is uncomfortable and that takes a little courage; that takes some fearlessness! But…

2 Timothy 1:7

…God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

So we should be able to step boldly from our comfort zones when the Spirit moves us and press into our calling without fear!

Hebrews 13:6

So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”

That brings me to a question or two.

Are we willing to be bold when our SPIRIT calls us to step out of the routine and into the unknown? Are we willing to listen and respond to what GOD wants us to do even when it seems strange or feels uncomfortable? Are we willing, like my friend, to put comparisons, routine and culture aside and be obedient to the calling of GOD on our hearts and spirits?

The answer should be YES!

Let's decide today that if and when the Spirit calls that we will step out of our comfort zone and into our calling!

Philippians 3:14

God has called me through Christ Jesus to life...

Something extraordinary will happen. It will.

I love you all…

Freedom Church

Pastor GDelaney