Jumping out of Your Comfort Zone by Jamy Whitaker | Guest Post

I'm excited to introduce you to my friend Jamy. We met at the ACFW Conference last year and she is just the sweetest! I know you'll be encouraged by her post today and don't forget to leave a comment because she has graciously offered up a giveaway copy of her book, Get Real: Stop Hiding Behind The Mask!

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“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, NIV)

The majority of us like to live within our comfort zone, because we feel safe and secure. However, if we are going to fulfill the purpose that God has for us, we are going to have to take that first step of faith. This is not easy. Many times we sit inside our safe, comfy box and think of all these reasons why we could not possibly step outside. I speak from experience; making excuses is exactly what I had been doing for quite sometime.

Over a year ago, I was sitting in a Bible study group trying to decide whether I was going to step out of my comfort zone and let those around me know where I felt the Lord was leading me. I will admit that this was difficult for me to do. It puts you in a very vulnerable place when you step out in faith and announce what direction you are going for the Lord. I knew by letting these women know, they would be watching me closer to see if I indeed followed through or simply retreated back to the security of my comfort zone. However, I knew the Lord was leading me in the direction of speaking and writing and I could not imagine turning my back on the purpose He has for my life.

For those who do not know me, this is so far outside of my comfort zone that I could no longer even see the box. Obviously, this is exactly where God wanted me, relying on His power and strength instead of my own. God has given me this passion to help others through my speaking and writing and He wanted me to jump out of the box and follow His path.

From Flickr by Denise P.S.

Therefore, I took that first step by telling those precious women what the Lord had placed on my heart and the direction I was headed. I asked for their prayers as I started this journey. I do not know where this road will take me, but I am certain I do not want to continue to sit on the sidelines. I made the choice to chase hard after the purpose God had given to me.

Since that first little step God has been redirecting me by closing and opening doors. Some opportunities were beyond anything I could have ever hoped for or imagined, but that is simply how God works. It all starts with that first step or leap of faith out of your comfort zone. The road will not be easy, but God has promised to walk with us every step of the way. Do not be satisfied with sitting and watching life pass you by. You need to get up and get going on your own journey.

Now, it is your turn. I challenge you this week to spend some time with God and see where He is leading you and then make a list of things you need to do to start your journey. Then, I want you to select one thing from the list and do it this week. No more excuses!

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-->I am married to a wonderful man, Mitch. He is truly a blessing from God. He works as a project manager for Interior Fixtures. When he is not working, he can be found roaming our woods known by all as Whit-Akers. We have 5 wonderful children. Yes, that’s right 5. I cannot believe that God blessed us with so many children. They range in age from 7 to 17. They are the joy of our lives.
Join me as I work to stitch God's truths into everyday life.
Website: www.jamywhitaker.org
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