How can we start faith conversations with ease? The key is practice!
Our most recent guest on the Ask About My Faith podcast, Eric Eickhof, shares his words of wisdom and a few stories that may encourage you.
As someone who grew up going to church on Sundays, Eric knew that at some point his faith would have to become his own. In college, he began to find his own views on faith and spirituality. However, the event that caused his fervent pursuit of God was the tragic death of a close friend from high school.
Following the loss, Eric began to pursue God by going to church. He learned the truth about eternal life in heaven, and the path we must follow to spend eternity with Jesus. Through discipleship and key friendships, his life took a turn for the better.
“People often come to Christ in crisis.”
Questions Open the Door for Faith Conversations
A few years into his faith journey, Eric had an unexpected conversation while on a run with a friend. During their conversation, his friend began to open up about struggles in his business and tension in his life.
“Eric, how do you do it?” was the question that opened the door.
This simple moment of curiosity made space for a faith conversation. Despite moments of fear, Eric was quick to invite his friend to a Bible study. This little act of obedience caused his friend to become even more curious to learn about Jesus.
Even the simple question of, “Is there anything I can pray for you about today?” can be a gateway to authentic connection and honest faith conversations.
Related Podcast: Check out our conversation with Lisabeth Rebney
Invitation Invites Conversation
Another time Eric shared his faith was when he invited a roommate to join him at church. Toward the end of service, the pastor called those who wanted to renew their faith to the front. To Eric's surprise, as the moment progressed, Eric and his friend both walked to the front and received the call for the renewal of faith.
“My invite was impacting both of our lives in a significant way!”
His simple invitation paved the way for an encounter with God that caused them both to rededicate their lives to the Lord. Remember: God will use our little “Yes!” in big ways.
Related Post: 4 Tips For Having Conversations About Faith
How to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Eric’s stories remind us that we don’t have to worry about having the right thing to say at just the right time. The Holy Spirit will lead us as we seek to share our faith with those around us.
Push past the fear.
“Press into the discomfort of sharing your faith, even if that’s new for you!”
Eric has learned to push past fear in order to share his faith as he feels led. His story reminds us that often, when we are pressed outside of our comfort zone, it bears fruit for others.
According to John 10:10, the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. As you’re growing in sharing your faith, don’t let the enemy stand in your way!
Boldness can look like baby steps.
Sharing your faith is like learning a new skill. Just like with anything new, the more you do it, the better you become!
Boldness can look like baby steps. Whether you’re brand new to following Jesus or have been walking with Him for a long time, remember that your small invitation could make a big impact!
As you go throughout your week, ask God to give you boldness to ask questions, have faith conversations, and love others well.
Related Post: 7 Questions to Help You Share Your Faith
Does the Bible Talk About Comfort Zones? | Some Bible Verses About How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Stepping out of your comfort zone may be a modern phrase, but surprisingly, the Bible has much to say about it! Here are five of our favorite Bible verses about stepping out of our your comfort zone:
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. - Philippians 4:13 NIV
Philippians 4:13 is one of the most quoted Bible verses and also one of the most popular leaving your comfort zone Bible verses. This verse also was made incredibly popular by Tim Tebow, as he once wore Philippians 4:13 on his eye blacks when he was a star quarterback. The author of this scripture, the Apostle Paul, most likely wrote the book of Philippians while under house arrest in Rome.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. - Proverbs 3:5 ESV
The Book of Proverbs is a book of wisdom that people have been gleaning from since it was written. Proverbs 3:5 is one of the most quoted stepping out of your comfort zone Bible verses. It provides direction, trust, and hope for whatever season you’re walking through.
For we walk by faith, not by sight. - 2 Corinthians 5:7
This inspiring leaving your comfort zone Bible verse empowers the reader to see beyond the natural and to live by faith. God can do anything, anytime, anywhere, with anyone. Follow in Eric Eickhoff’s footsteps and step out of your comfort zone while spreading the love of Jesus.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33 NIV
Sometimes we’re afraid to step out of our comfort zone because we’re afraid to experience pain, disconnection, or ridicule. Thankfully, Jesus left us with these empowering words to encourage us to follow His leading, wherever that may be.
“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy[a] that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” - Matthew 7:13-14 ESV
Sometimes following the narrow way means following Jesus into uncomfortable places, spaces, or interactions. However, this stepping out of your comfort zone Bible verse is a timeless reminder that following Jesus may not always be easy, but it leads to life.
Why is Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone Important?
If you’re ever wondered why getting out of your comfort zone is important, you’re not alone. Stepping out of your comfort zone isn’t only important in sharing your faith, it’s important in living your life to the fullest. Living a life of faith that empowers you to step out of your comfort zone often involves conversations and situations that may seem scary right now – but remember: spreading the hope and love of Jesus is worth it! Just imagine all the unexpected opportunities to connect with others and share the message of Jesus. Stepping out of your comfort zone allows your faith to bear fruit and potentially impact the lives of those around you.
Benefits of Leaving Your Comfort Zone
Being out of your comfort zone may feel paralyzing at times, but as we see in the life of Eric Eickhof, there is always a reward – even if we don’t see it at the moment of risk. When we share an encouraging word, pray for someone, or share the Gospel with a stranger, we are planting a seed of hope that will grow, regardless if we’re there to see it through!
Here are three further benefits of leaving your comfort zone:
1. Being Out Of Your Comfort Zone Demonstrates Your Trust in God: Each time you step out of your comfort zone, you are demonstrating your trust in God to others. You are showcasing faith that God will keep you, hold you, and help you no matter what the outcome. By taking risks and embracing new experiences, you are demonstrating your belief in God which only increases your relationship with Him!
Need conversations starters for talking with others and sharing your faith? Learn how to get out of your comfort zone: 4 Tips For Having Conversations About Faith
2. Being Out of Your Comfort Zone Fosters Personal Growth: For anyone who wants to grow, step out from your comfort zone to foster personal growth! Each time you step out of your comfort zone, you are challenged and developed, not only as a disciple, but as a person. Facing your fears and embracing discomfort is one of the quickest ways to foster personal growth.
Want to foster more personal growth and spiritual disciplines? Head over to our blog: How to Study The Bible for Beginners
3. Being Out of Your Comfort Zone Helps You Share Your Faith With Others: As you step out of your comfort zone, you will interact with people from different backgrounds, beliefs, and world views. Jesus is worthy of everyone. Sharing your faith with others or offering to pray for someone is an easy “how” to get out of your comfort zone today.
Learn more about sharing your faith by reading our interview with Rick Hoppe, a disciple of Jesus who’s had over 20,000 conversations about God: How to Share Your Faith Without Fear
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