Apparently it is quite popular these days to wear “jeggings,” jeans that are stretchy like “leggings.” For all of my brothers in Christ out there, “stretchy pants” is the best description of this very comfortable clothing item. Who doesn’t like being comfortable? The challenge, however, is that God often calls us to situations and positions that are quite the opposite. Here is a mandate from the prophet Isaiah concerning our “comfort zone.” If you look carefully, you will note that it has a distinct echo of what Jesus taught in the Gospels and what Paul wrote from the Holy Spirit in his letters.
Isaiah 54:2-4 is not a dare or even a suggestion, but a command with a promise, from God Himself:
“2 Enlarge the site of your tent, and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out; do not hold back; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes. 3 For you will spread out to the right and to the left, and your descendants will possess the nations and will settle the desolate towns. 4 Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed; do not be discouraged, for you will not suffer disgrace…”
Do not be afraid or discouraged, but rather be obedient to the Holy Spirit’s leading to step out in a particular part of your life this month. Join a Bible study- or start one. Give a financial gift or drop off a sack full of groceries anonymously to anyone…whatever the amount God has placed on your heart. Pray openly with someone who does not know who Jesus is. Ask God what ministry at church He would have you start or support. Give more of your time to a loved one (or to a stranger) than you think you have. Set a recurring daily appointment on your phone’s calendar or on a printed calendar to spend time alone talking with God about anything and everything.
Trust God with all of your mind, with all of your heart, all of your strength and all of your soul. Love God so much that every time your level of comfort is tested in life, your first response is: “Yes, Lord! Yes!” As the promise in Isaiah 52:4 assures us, you will not be disgraced if you will only trust Him.
In the Holy Love of Jesus Christ,
Sister Vanessa
Life at Caldwell Brethren Church 