Having six kids, I know what a major undertaking it has been over the years to get everyone out the door when we all want to go out somewhere together. If we are going somewhere special, there is the added drama that goes with having four daughters and what they are going to wear, and our boys invariably complain if they have to wear more than their favourite old comfy pair of shorts and t-shirt.
Somehow no matter how organised I am, I'm often the last one to have a few minutes to get ready, and even then, it can be interrupted by requests to do hair, ironing, help to do up zips and buttons, or a last-minute wardrobe change. I've decided that getting out the door often takes a finely tuned strategy and then military precision to execute it. It's beautiful to behold when it works and absolute chaos when things go array.
Which is much the same as anything we want to do in life. Some days it perhaps would be easier to do nothing and not venture out of our safe, comfortable space and keep the door of our life firmly closed.
But if we choose to venture out the door, and even when it may take some preparation, strategising, and effort, it's worth it. When we get out the door, we experience life, meet new people, build relationships, and grow in God's purposes for our life.
Undoubtedly, it takes some effort to venture "out the door", but I'm so grateful for God's strengthening and inspiration to make the effort, even when it is a little crazy. I've discovered the abundant joy and continual demonstrations of God's goodness and love in getting out the door. My purpose is tied up with "getting out the door".
Today determine to expand and enlarge your life. Seek to enlarge your heart, influence, experience, and impact in the world. Venture out the door, and in doing so, you'll find joy and the full and abundant life Jesus has for you.
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I (Jesus) came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows) ". (John 10:10)
"Enlarge the place of your tent. Stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, spare not, lengthen your cords, and strengthen your pegs. For you will spread abroad to the right and the left.". (Isaiah 54:2-3)
Prayer: Lord, please help me expand my life and open up my heart so that I can experience life in all its fullness. I'm venturing out the door today. In Jesus' name Amen