<%@ Page Language="VB" ContentType="text/html" ResponseEncoding="iso-8859-1" %> Untitled Document Apple Pie and Coffee

A man had trouble with his English, so his friend taught him how to say, "Apple pie and coffee," so when on the job, he could order some food at the local restaurant during his lunch hour. This was fine with our man, and he was grateful to his friend, but after several months, he wanted a little more variety in his fare. His friend was glad to oblige and taught him how to say, "Ham and cheese sandwich."

The man proudly walked into the restaurant the next day and said to the waitress, "Ham and cheese sandwich."

To which the waitress responded, "White, whole wheat, or rye?"

With shoulders sagging and the smile gone from his face, he answered back, "Apple pie and coffee."

In the many facets of our lives, we all have our "comfort zones." Those things that we have done many times can be done again with little thought or concern. But, when we undertake some new task, one that is unfamiliar, we become nervous, uncertain and may decide against it altogether. If we do try, and feel that it didn't go well, we may decide not to try again. We draw back into our comfort zone.

God created us to grow and mature. This truth is seen in all of nature. Only man has the extraordinary ability to step out of himself and see what might need improving. Afterwards, steps can be deliberately made to be better than before. "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised." (Heb 5:12,14a). Did you notice that growth came "by reason of use?"

May we all remember our Lord's promise, "Lo I am with you always.," step out of our comfort zone, and perhaps be amazed at what God can accomplish both "in us" and "through us!"

Have a great week!

Ben May

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