Don’t let Fear of the Unknown Trap you in your Comfort Zone

I recently had a baby bird hidden within a hanging basket on my front porch. She was tucked in a warm, secure place. She seemed quite comfortable. She was fed, cared for and maturing. One day she braved her first peak of the big world around her, only to quickly retreat into her comfort zone. (For the full story, read last week’s post)

I enjoy being softly tucked in a familiar and secure surrounding. Sometimes it is fearful for me to step out of my comfort zone. Comfort zones are just that . . . comfortable!

Can you relate?

However, if allowed, the comfort zone will hold you captive. When we are held back by our fear, we will never learn to spread our wings and fly. So, my friend, step two of learning how to soar is:

Don’t let fear of the unknown, trap you in your comfort zone. Now it is true that my bird peeked out from her cozy nest for a quick look at the world beyond her nest. The first time she quickly retreated. Eventually she moved from the nest on to the porch and beyond. How absurd would it be, for the bird to always retreated into her safe and secure hidden place? How sad would it be for her to have never discovered her wings and live up to her potential? Eventually, she would have been an adult bird trapped in her own nest, without the ability to take flight. She would have been easy prey for the enemy. Be reminded, that once you are ready, the nest can hinder you! As needed and comfortable as the nest is, when the baby bird has matured to the point of flight, that which allowed growth is the very thing that keeps the bird from which it was created. We too can stay “too long in the nest.” Make sure what God gave you to grow in isn’t hindering you from catching the wind of what God created you to do.

I read a quote recently from Erin Hanson that says, “What if I fall? But oh daring what if you fly!” Only when you begin to take flight, can you truly soar. Don’t let the fear of the unknown keep you in your comfort zone too long.

Sometimes, my friend when fear wants to paralyze you and me, I suggest we move forward, even in fear. There is an old saying that reads, “If God leads you to it, He will see you through it.”

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”  ~ Psalm 56:3

I encourage you today, to find your wings and soar! Don’t let fear of the unknown, trap you in your comfort zone.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9