I do not like making phone calls here or there; I do not like making phone calls anywhere!
“Our greatest joy and satisfaction comes not from avoiding hard things but from joyfully embracing them. This is how the same Jesus who said, “If anyone would come after me let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me,” could also say, “for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Following in Christ’s footsteps is hard, but it’s good — and He is the ultimate example to us of an extraordinary life spent doing hard things for the glory of God.
When we fail to do hard things, we not only disobey God, but we set ourselves up to fall short of our true, God-given potential. Even worse, we act as if God is not worthy of our effort — or as if He is unable to accomplish through us what He has called us to do.
We say all this because we want you to glorify God. And God isn’t glorified when His children limit themselves to what comes easily for them.
The Christian calling is hard,
So, what things would qualify as hard for you?
Do hard things.
Dr. Suess! :)
I hate giving speeches and last year I had to give many. :(
I have to admit, though, that it really helped me in just everyday conversation and my confidence. I now walk with more confidence and talk with a little more also! :)
So, I guess I’m trying to relate with your phone trials. *grins*
I hate making phone calls too!! :D
Yeah,those are the two things I have a problem with the most! I remember one time I had to call and order some hay, I was so nervous I stumble with my words like crazy, and for the first two minutes couldn’t get one intelligent sounding sentance out of my mouth, making me even more nervous. I am getting much better though.
And I too have a problem with asking for help, or asking if I can help out with some event, both for the same reason of being afraid of cathing them at a bad time, or pressuring them. And I have this thing of repaetedly answering someone’s question (Ex. Do you want some of this bacon?) with “oh sure, if it’s alright with you. Are you sure that’s okay? Cause if you want it, and there isn’t enough for me, that’s just fine, I don’t have to have it……….” (Between you and me, I think it drives my dad nuts!)
I also have a hard time playing the piano in front of people, I get so nervous! And the thing is, I like playing pieces for people, but my hands shake so much,it is really hard.
One thing I have started to worl on really hard is talking to new people, and relatives. It would be even easier if I could think of something to say! I mean, it’s hard to talk to cousins who practically live on a different planet, as far as interests, hobbies, schooling, and mode of of dress go.
Those quotes are good!
Hello Bryant,
What a great post!
It is something I really needed to hear…
Doing hard things is not often discussed in modern Christians circles – but we greatly need to hear it! :)
Thanks for sharing!
Kaysie
Hello!
I liked this post. I hate making phone calls too. I can pretty much only talk to my best friend easily on the phone. I especially hate ordering pizza. =)
I really like the recent Rebelution posts as well. They are so inspiring!
Bryant, I know how difficult it can be for you to step out of your comfort zone and for that I am very proud of you. I too at times, am afraid to step out of my comfort zone and I am 44 years old. Everytime I have stepped out, God has blessed me beyond measure with wonderful friendships and experiences that has truly enriched my life.
Lots of love.
Naturally, our flesh desires to stick to the stuff that is easy for us. But of course God will not be content with that! It’s great to see others who are desiring to live God’s plan for their life and do hard things!
Thank you for this post. :)
~Allison
Hi! I found yur blog very randomly…but couldn’t resist sharing this little “trick” that takes away some of the fears of making phone calls. Especially for when it’s for a specific purpose, like asking a question or requesting help. People call me and I find myself almost tapping my fingers through the “Hi, how are you? Fine, how are you?” stuff cuz I KNOW they “want something.” I think, “Just get on with it!” So I try to do that, too–keep it brief and state my purpose!
So here’s what you do: “Hi, So-And-Do, it’s Me! I’m giving you a quick call BECAUSE…” See?? They know it’s going to be quick (you don’t even have to ask if they’re busy cuz you said it’ll be quick!) and they know you’re calling with a purpose and aren’t going to “waste” their time. I learned it for my home-based business…but use it all the time now!! :) And the word ‘because’ triggers something in the brain where people WANT to say “yes,” so that’s an added bonus! Just FYI! God bless you!!
I can totally understand what you are talking about Bryant! I don’t like to talk on the phone either! :) Thanks for the encouraging post!
Amen! May we all press on to do hard things! I don’t like making phone calls either, but through teaching dance, I’ve had to quite a few times. It gets easier with practice, but I still don’t relish it!