How often do you ask God to make you comfortable?
My bike ride today was tough. I’ve done four long rides in a row this week. I guess today was the low-energy point.
I stopped for a snack and found myself wondering why there have to be difficult days. I’d bet I’m not alone in asking that question.
I’m wondering lately how much God cares about my comfort.
I know He cares about my welfare, that He values my spiritual growth and my character—I’m just not sure those have much relationship to comfort. In fact, one could make a good argument that comfort inhibits much of the stuff God seems to value.
I could have taken a shortcut home this morning. My sore shoulders would have appreciated the break. But I’m training for a difficult journey on which there will be tough days. Pushing past current, temporary discomfort is the only way to develop the endurance I’ll need.
I’ve been thinking about the things I pray for. Usually it’s circumstances and I’m asking God to make things a little more favorable. I’d like the deck stacked in my direction. I’d like God to make things a bit more comfortable.
I’m not sure that’s His vision for me. I think He wants me to dream big dreams and live a story worth telling.
Stories worth telling are rarely comfortable.
When I really think about it, I’m not sure following Jesus is all that comfortable, either. It’s exciting, and challenging, and stimulating. It’s certainly a story worth telling.
But there’s not much about the cross that’s comfortable.
What’s your take? Is comfort wrong? Does God want us to be comfortable or uncomfortable?
You can leave a comment here.
Want to receive free updates?
Click below to get Bouncing Back
delivered directly to your inbox.
