Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me…”

Have you ever had one of those little nudges to change something in your life, that seems to others crazy? To do something out of the ordinary in hopes of the extraordinary? At different points in our lives, we have all felt this, and for some many times. The better question is…did you listen and obey?

I’m the type of person that likes to stay under the radar. I like to follow the rules and have things planned out weeks and sometimes months in advance. Staying in my comfort zone brings me peace, or so I tell myself. Recently, our family was faced with a big decision. From the outside looking in the obvious answer would have been to say “no” to the opportunity and stay in our comfort zone. But then there was that nudging.

God kept nudging us to move forward and kept revealing himself in ways that could not be “coincidences”. We prayed about it and remained faithful in God’s leading. So, we said “yes”, not knowing what the future would bring. Faith moved us out of our comfort zone to have full reliance on the fact that God was planning out and moving pieces into place. All we had to do was say “yes” and stay faithful in that decision. Trust me, the days, weeks, and months to follow were not rainbows and butterflies. There were many emotions and a lot of tears, but we never lost hope in knowing that God had his hand in it all.

It reminds me of different stories in the bible, but in particular of David and Goliath. 1 Samuel 17 gives the account of a child (David) living out his faith. Not caring of the circumstances, but going into battle with an opponent that all men of Israel were scared to face. Knowing that he was called by God to step out of his comfort zone, and make steps displaying his faith. He didn’t question the “why or how”. Nor did he make the decision to move through fear. He stepped out in faith, knowing that God would handle all the details. All he had to do was choose to be obedient to the calling that was placed in front of him.

Isn’t that what we are called to do? Don’t question the “why or how”. Don’t make decisions based on your fears, but living in faith. Move when God calls you to move. Allow Him to work out all the details. We just need to be obedient.

Now it’s easy to keep all our focus on David, especially as our example, but we wouldn’t be doing the context of 1 Samuel 17 justice if we ignored Goliath. Goliath represents, that seemingly unbeatable problem, our fears, our burdens, our crazy idea that God has called us to do. What is the Goliath in your life? What nine-foot giant circumstance are you allowing to prevent you from living in obedience to God’s will?

Philippians 4:13 says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Not in my own power and strength, but through Christ’s strength. Not just some things, but ALL things. If God is nudging you, be obedient to the One who knows what is coming next. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,” Deuteronomy 31:8.

Heavenly father, thank you for your nudging and leading. Reveal to me what Goliath I need to give over to you, to live out faith like David. May I be obedient to you in all the things you have called me to do. Help me to step out of my comfort zone, and walk knowing that I’m not alone and that you lead the way.

– Jessica