Why Your Comfort Zone is Killing Your Spiritual Growth

In our convenience driven society, the quest for comfort is ever-present. We crave quick-fixes, settled routines, the predictability of familiar surroundings, and most of all: the security of our comfort zones. Yet, as Christians, we are called to prioritize something far greater than comfort—our character. Character, rooted in Christ-like virtues, shapes who we are and how we impact the world. Traveling, with its inherent challenges and opportunities, can be a powerful catalyst for character growth:

Embracing Discomfort for Growth

1. Trusting God in Uncertainty

Travel often puts us into situations where we must rely on God more than ever. Whether it’s navigating a foreign city, dealing with unexpected delays, or managing language barriers, travel innately takes us out of our comfort zone and can strip away our usual routine, habits, and conveniences and force us to lean on God’s guidance.

Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

When we learn to trust God in every adventure, travel can become an exercise in faith, teaching us to trust God’s plan over our own.

2. Cultivating Patience and Humility

Travel rarely goes perfectly. Delays, missed flights, long lines, and cultural misunderstandings can test our patience.

James 1:2-4 encourages us, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."

These moments of frustration when things are not going our way or according to plan are hidden opportunities to grow in patience and humility. This reminder that we are not in control is a great exercise in learning to take every experience as a chance to reflect Christ’s love and grace.

3. Adapting to Remote Work Challenges

For the digital nomad Travelher, remote work, much like travel, removes us from the familiar office environment, presenting its own set of challenges. Balancing work and personal life, dealing with different time zones, and maintaining productivity require adaptability and discipline.

Colossians 3:23 reminds us, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." When we embrace these simple but important daily challenges, we can strengthen our character and deepen our commitment to excellence in all we do.

Character Building Through Service

4. Serving Others in New Contexts

While traveling, we encounter diverse cultures and communities which can broaden our understanding and compassion.

Engaging in service projects, whether through mission trips or local volunteer opportunities, can deepen our empathy, connection, and commitment to others as well as our faith.

Jesus taught us in Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." By serving and loving on others, we develop a servant’s heart, mirroring Christ’s example.

5. Learning from Different Cultures

Every culture has unique perspectives and practices that can deepen our own walk with the Lord. It’s natural to want to view faith through our own cultural lens rather than strictly a Biblical one.

Observing and engaging with different ways of worshipping the Lord, engaging in community, hospitality, and service can challenge our preconceived notions and expand our understanding of God and the beauty of the global church body.

This cultural exchange fosters humility and respect, essential components of a Christ-like character while also unifying the diversity of the body of Christ.

Reflection and Growth

6. Deepening Reflection and Prayer

Travel often provides the time and space for deeper reflection and prayer.

Away from the distractions of our day-to-day life, we can spend more intentional time with God and practice an awareness of His presence… bringing Him into the adventure rather than letting just the destination sweep us away .

Psalms 46:10 encourages us, "Be still, and know that I am God." Whether it’s through journaling in a quiet café or praying during a peaceful nature hike, allowing moments of solitude can strengthen our relationship with God and clarify His purpose for our lives.

7. Gaining Perspective on Life

Stepping out of our comfort zones and into new environments can offer fresh perspectives on our lives and priorities. Seeing the needs and struggles of others can instill gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose in our Christian walk.

Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

FINAL THOUGHTS

While comfort has its place, our ultimate calling as Christians is to grow in character, becoming more like Christ. Traveling, with its multitude of challenges, experiences, and opportunities to adapt, can be powerful tools in this journey.

Being led by the Holy Spirit will naturally involve us getting out of our comfort zones. When we start embracing discomfort, serving others, and reflecting deeply, we can develop the virtues that build a Christ-centered life.

Let’s step out in faith, trusting that God will use every journey and day, regardless of location, to shape us into His image, prioritizing character over comfort every step of the way.