Let Go and Let God

By: Erlinda Mejia-Olson

PHILIPPIANS 3:13-14 ~ “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.”

Saying goodbye is not my cup of tea. Yet, nine hours ago, I had to. It’s that part of every journey that I am not looking forward to. My heart was torn apart. Wondering. When will I get to see them again. The faces of my family who sheltered me with love—in their own special ways—while I was recuperating.  This familiar place of birth.  The God-inspired journeys for my keepsake. I am very thankful!

Though saying goodbye may seem very difficult but I have to Let Go … and Let God.

In God’s sovereignty. In meekness. I surrendered.  Letting God take over.

There are things in life that I never want to let go of.  People I never want to leave behind.  But I’ve learned to keep a cheerful heart that a goodbye is not the end—but a beginning. Of a new journey.

I was reminded:

“… forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead …”  (Phil 3:13). 

I felt an instant relief.  

I told myself: “I’m not leaving someone behind, I just simply take a part of them with me and leave a piece of myself behind.”

I’ve come to realize, that learning to let go is an important aspect of life. For growth. We have to let go of people, things, memories, situations, and even ourselves. So, God can come in. To bring forgiveness, healing, and change. In our calloused hearts. In our imperfect lives.

I understand, that it is part of human nature to develop a sense of attachment to people, places, and things. This may not be necessarily a bad thing, if the heart is right with God. If it doesn't take the place of God in our hearts. But when attachment is developed, and you realized that it is time to let go, it can be a heartbreaking experience if you’re not being careful. Just the sheer thought of ‘letting go’ pinches your heart in pain.

Since change is inevitable, there are instances where it’s necessary for you to let go of the relationship or friendship, so that each of you can fulfill your life calling.

Letting go of your past can be tough. Old memories can be agonizing. Yet you still dwell on the past. Denying the need to press forward. Such denial will stand as a barrier to change. Change that God wants to do for your life.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

I’ve discovered that by letting go of those circumstances which are behind, God’s grace has restored me. Plucking out superfluous ingredients for a perfect recipe of a new life. Filling up every void with the depths of His love and mercy. Building new memories—one journey at a time.

Are you having a hard time letting go?  It's time to give it up.  Shake off the dust and push the past away.  Away.  From you. To God.

The Lord Jesus says,

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:29-30)

Well then …

It’s three hours before landing.

Lord willing, I’ll be setting my eyes on the face of my dearly beloved. The part of my journey that I am always looking forward to.  Praying.  Hoping.  Never to end.

In Christ—the reason for it ALL.

“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:14)

Let the Journey continue ...

Self glorification was never what I strived for. What I strived for was to journal one more good journey to glorify Christ, hoping to build others up. If I could.

"You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." (Proverbs 16:11).