I have been contemplative lately. I've just been thinking about where I am in life - where my family is in life - where we are headed - and where I want us to head. And God's been speaking to my heart about giving Him the control of things that I hold so tightly in my own hands.

I read in a devotional yesterday morning that if we ever want to move forward in God's Will, we must allow Him to take us outside of our comfort zones. And that's really tough to do at times! Because we can grip and hold on so fiercely to those comfort zones! Maybe a comfort zone for you is your friendships and God wants to move your family away. Maybe your comfort zone is being able to schedule your day just "so" and have it go the way you want it to and God wants to fill up your schedule to a level that you are just not used to. Maybe your comfort zone is having your children go to a Christian school and God is moving your family to put them in public school.

Whatever our comfort zones are, it can be really hard to "transition" into new unchartered territories, especially when they scare you.

I was having a talk with God in my car today and I was telling Him of some of my fears, through the conversation, God showed me how my fears were based on putting my security and faith in situations, or people - instead of putting my security and faith in HIM.

God never intended us to live comfortable, safe lives. He wants us to be a light to the world. Sometimes to be a light - that means treading out into darker waters. Sure, it's scarey! But I've learned that it's safer to be in darker waters with God on my side, than in the shallow waters all on my own without God working with and FOR me.

I don't have this "comfort" zone thing all worked out. I struggle with it and fight against it, just like most people do. But God is teaching me to be more workeable and open-minded about allowing Him to take me to places that I otherwise wouldn't think of going. And I want Him to be pleased with me. So I may be nervous, or scared - but if He asks me or my family to leave our comfort zones - then I plan on closing my eyes, taking a step forward, and holding His hand every step of the way.

And I know it won't ever be a decision I'll regret. For my God is always faithful.