THE WORD VS COMFORT ZONES

05/31/2024

"So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going." (John 6:19-21)

Growth is often mentally challenging because it demands that you leave your comfort zone and become comfortable with the uncomfortable. The associated fears that accompany growing are the fear of failure and the fear of success and it's important to nip fear in the bud. In John 6:19-21, we find an allegory. The disciples had set course for Capernaum. Interestingly, Capernaum means the "Village of Comfort ", an apt description for a comfort zone. Under natural circumstances, it would take the disciples a certain time to get to where they were going by boat.  

However, the Bible declares that Jesus came walking on the sea toward them, in the middle of what might have been a normal trip to Capernaum, and initiated discomfort. The Bible says the disciples became afraid. Hear me, this Year of the God-kind is that year that the Lord comes walking on the sea to interrupt whatever you've got going, in a way that will feel uncomfortable.

Simon said to Jesus, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net” (Luke 5:5). This default response to the uncomfortable instruction of Jesus to let down his net for a catch, after a long night of fishing without success, was based on the fear of failing again. Thank God he summoned courage to receive the instruction and carry it out. 

The same word that the Lord spoke to those disciples, He speaks to you today: "Fear not...!" It doesn't matter that you tried before and failed. Or that you applied for the job and the interview process is grueling. It doesn't matter that you are struggling with staying in your comfort zone even after you heard God on a matter. Refuse to fear, receive the Word of God that He has given to you, and take action. 

One of the lies that the enemy has used to immobilize you in your comfort zone or make you want to return to it is the lie that God's word to you was just your mind; that you conjured the idea to preach to so-and-so, that your desire to excel at work, have another child or start that new venture is self-originated. Hear the Word of the Lord, Jesus says, that desire is of Me. "...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure" (Philippians 2:13).

What you need to do is accept this Word of God to you that throws you out of your comfort zone. Notice that John 6:21 says: "Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going." Observe that it was when the disciples willingly received Him that a supernatural speed took hold of their boat and got them to their destination ahead of time. 

Hear me, the advancement that God has in mind for you is outside your comfort zone. You are going to have to lean into the instruction keenly and refuse the urge to fear failing or succeeding. Your obligation is to do the word and leave the rest to the Lord.

Have a fantastic day 

Faith-Filled Confession

I refuse to observe lying vanities. My heart is fixed on the spoken word of God to do it. I recognize that God's mind concerning my advancement is outside my comfort zone and the only thing I can do is receive it. Therefore, I am dutiful to God's instructions and I conduct myself as one that has heard from the Author of the Universe. Hallelujah!

Prayer

Hebrews 13:15

Begin with praise and adoration to the Lord for protecting us. Make confessions to His name.

Proverbs 10:22, Psalm 127:3

Refute and cancel every claim of sickness, division, confusion, and death against God’s grace, provisions, and will in your life. 

Philippians 1:6, Zechariah 4:7

Pray against every form of resistance and hindrance to God's move in your life. Declare that the people of God have prevailed in Jesus' name.

Prophesy life, safety, increase, and testimonies over your family members in Jesus' name.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Chronicles 4-6; John 12:20-50