Shenelle Ball-Green, Host It’s Been a Journey Podcast
Holding Yourself Hostage Series — Episode: Comfortable in Captivity
🎧 [Click here to listen on Spotify]
Have you ever been free physically but still stuck mentally? That’s exactly what happened with the Children of Israel after they left Egypt — and it’s exactly what happens to many of us today. We leave the toxic job, the unhealthy relationship, or the destructive habit, yet we still think, react, and plan from a captive mindset.
In this episode of the Holding Yourself Hostage series, Shenelle (host of It’s Been a Journey) shares how being comfortable in captivity ruins the opportunities and future God has for us. This isn’t just about history — it’s about your relationships, your thinking, and the way you show up every day.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How staying in old mindsets creates missed blessings and delayed progress
- Why freedom is more than just leaving a place — it’s renewing your mind
- Eight powerful ways we get comfortable in captivity — and how to break free
- How to embrace your “promised land” with confidence and clarity
8 Ways We Get Comfortable in Captivity — and the Solutions
1. Romanticizing the Past
We look back at “Egypt” with rose-colored glasses.
Solution: Keep a gratitude journal about your current space.
Scripture: Isaiah 43:18-19.
2. Fear of the Unknown
Freedom feels risky, captivity feels predictable.
Solution: Take one small faith step each week.
Scripture: Joshua 1:9.
3. Mistaking Familiarity for Safety
Just because it’s familiar doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Solution: Build new routines, connect with mentors, and expand your circle.
4. Avoiding Confrontation
We stay quiet to “keep the peace” even when it’s destroying us.
Solution: Practice courageous conversations and healthy boundaries.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:15.
5. Staying in Toxic Relationships
We fear being alone, so we settle.
Solution: Conduct a “relationship audit” and pray for strength to detach.
Scripture: Amos 3:3.
6. Downplaying Our Gifts
Captivity convinces you your calling doesn’t matter.
Solution: List your top three gifts and act on them weekly.
7. Ignoring Mental Health
We pray but refuse therapy, journaling, or accountability.
Solution: Combine faith with practical steps like counseling and mentorship.
Scripture: Proverbs 11:14.
8. Resisting the Renewal of the Mind
Old thinking maintains captivity.
Solution: Daily declarations, meditating on positive scripture, and surrounding yourself with empowering content.
Scripture: Romans 12:2.
Closing Thoughts
Being comfortable in captivity isn’t just about your location — it’s about your mindset. God didn’t bring you out of Egypt so you could build a tent in the wilderness. He brought you out so you could go forward. Every step toward renewing your mind, setting boundaries, and trusting Him is a step into freedom.
💜 Take one of the eight areas above and make a tangible change this week. Journal it. Pray over it. Tell a trusted friend. Then come back and share your journey with us on social media using #HoldingYourselfHostage and tag @ItsBeenAJourneyPodcast.
🎧 Listen Now: [Click here to stream the full episode on Spotify]
Let’s break chains together and step into the future God has for us!