Should I Let Go?

Sometimes we can get to a point where we just don't know what to do anymore. We've tried just about everything we can think of to make something work or to fix a certain situation but nothing seems to help. What do we do? Should we just give up? Should we just quit trying?

The answer to that question is a resounding "mmm-maybe". This week I have seen several examples of people struggling in situations where one of the options is to give up. It's the easiest thing to do. That's why so many people choose to do it. Marriage not working out like you want? Get a divorce! But is that the right thing to do?

I was speaking with a young adult friend of mine this week who is struggling in a relationship. Her boyfriend wasn't treating her like she thought he should be treated. She's tried praying and tried talking things out with him. Nothing seems to be working. What should she do? Is it time to move on?

Another friend has a rebellious adult daughter. Disobedient, disrespectful, time spent in jail. What should the mom do? Should she just give up or should she keep trying? Should she kick her daughter out of the house? Cave in the her daughter's wishes? What?

Another example is a couple who has been married for over a quarter century, Sudden cancer has gotten their attention. They have tried just about everything - prayer, chemo, radiation. What do they do now when the words "just let go" don't want to be an option at all?

These situations are tough, tough things. We humans really struggle when it comes to fixing these kinds of things. The prevailing thought in our culture today is cut your losses and move on. And sometimes that actually can be the right thing to do. But if something is worth everything, isn't it worth fighting for?

If I was in a major battle like the ones I've mentioned here today, I'd want the best weapons available and the strongest soldiers fighting for me. If I want to win I must be prepared to do whatever it takes. First, I'd start with prayer. All of these people I have mentioned have already been doing that. That's good. Having God guide us into battle is ALWAYS a good thing.

The second thing I'd do is get those experienced soldiers - the best doctors, seasoned Christian counselors, a support group, prayer partners, an accountability partner or that best friend you can just dump on if you have to. All those are important. Vital in fact.

But I think the most power weapon we have in ANY battle is a two-pronged one - hope and faith. Placing our hope and faith in God can get us through anything. God is merciful and compassionate. He can fix any situation He sets His mind to. But what if He doesn't decide to help?

The one thing we must remember is that this life we are living right now is only temporary. The  next one is the one that matters. What also matters is how we handle our struggling while we are here. Do we whine and complain? Maybe initially. But then do we ultimately put everything into God's hands and let Him take control of the situation? We might struggle to do that but that's what God wants us to do.

And although we might eventually have to let go in certain situations, know this: God will never let go of us. So when we struggle, when we have tried everything we can think of, when we no longer know what to do anymore. Give God thanks and praise for getting you as far as you've gotten. Thank Him for walking with you. Never let go of God for He will never let go of you.

^"6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6

You Never Let Go - Matt Redman