“Let It Go”
By Dianne Prince
“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14, NKJV).
There are three things that will hinder our spiritual growth and interfere with our ability to move forward. Firstly, dwelling on the past encompasses holding onto regrets regarding our past decisions, feeling shame over our past actions, and experiencing overwhelming guilt over past dealings.
Secondly, hindrance can come from people, especially those in our immediate circle who are not moving in the same direction as we are, those who drag us down, and those who bring out the worst in us. It is important to note that this does not apply to individuals we are married to; the Bible provides different guidelines for married couples, a topic for another discussion.
In addition to living in the past and surrounding ourselves with negative influences, the third hindrance to progress is holding grudges against someone who wronged us many years ago.
Today’s scripture instructs us to leave behind draining relationships, regrets, and grudges. We achieve this by first, confiding in God. Share with Him if you are struggling to move past a person or situation. Then, seek His guidance. Ask Him how to focus on the present and the future. Finally, follow His instructions. By following God’s guidance, He will remove obstacles hindering your growth and nurture you in areas where it is needed most.
Today, make a conscious decision to release what you are holding onto. You cannot take hold of anything new until you let go of the past. Resolve to release past relationships that are not beneficial and negative feelings towards others. Open your hand and grasp the freedom that comes with letting go of the past.
