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1 Peter 5:13-16 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

When I read this verse I think of it telling us two things. In your Christian lives you can either...

1)   Be tempted to do something unholy, that you’ve probably done before, but this time you decide not to do it. This can be going to a party you know will have alcohol. It could be participating in gossiping. Or, going too far with a guy or a girl.

2)   Step out of your comfort zone to do something beneficial to God’s kingdom. This could be going on a mission’s trip and participating wholeheartedly, or standing up for someone getting bullied at school. Maybe even giving up of your time, money or possessions to help someone in need.

When I was in youth group I didn’t do the mission’s trips. I didn’t like to be in vulnerable, unpredictable situations. I’m still not a fan of those situations but over the last few years I really felt led to go on an oversees mission’s trip. Shortly after becoming a youth leader there was the opportunity to go to Ecuador. I knew it was just something I had to do. Was I nervous? Yes! Was I scared? Of course. But, like this verse says, “Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then.”

I “toughed” it out and had a great time! It was amazing to see God move in another country and in another language. I would have missed seeing this if I slipped back into my old ways. I wouldn’t have seen teens in a small village give their lives to Christ. Sometimes, living for God puts you in vulnerable situations. What brings me comfort is knowing that God is there in those situations.

So, stay strong. Step out of your comfort zone when God prompts you to share His love. Or, stay out of those places that will tempt you into going back into your old lifestyle. God is always with you!

1. What is one way you have seen other people go out of their comfort zone and do something that ended up serving God?

2. When is the last time you went out of your comfort zone to do the right thing or to do something that would make an impact for God?

3. Who is a Christian friend that you need to challenge to get out of their comfort zone and so something for God?

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Written by Melissa McKechnie