July 15th, 2024
by Dr. Jimmy Arthur Atkins
by Dr. Jimmy Arthur Atkins
In our fast-paced world, many of us are weighed down by the heavy burden of negative feelings that have piled up overtime. Dr. David Hawkins, in his book Letting Go: The Pathway to Surrender suggests that the average human life is spent trying to avoid and run from inner turmoil and pain. We often turn to various distractions—new hobbies, traveling, or even pursuing another degree or achievement—to escape our feelings. However, these temporary fixes rarely provide lasting relief.
The story of Joseph in the Bible offers profound insights into the process of letting go and letting God take control. Joseph faced numerous detours, disappointments, and delays on his journey to fulfill his dreams. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers and enduring years of hardship, Joseph ultimately recognized that it was God who had orchestrated his path. In Genesis 45:8, Joseph tells his brothers, "It was not you who sent me here, but God."
After their father Jacob died, Joseph's brothers feared retribution for their past wrongs (Genesis 50:15-21). They approached Joseph with a message, supposedly from their father, asking for forgiveness. Joseph's response was one of grace and forgiveness. However, he wept, not out of anger, but because I believe he was still holding on to things he had not fully surrendered as explained by David Hawkins in his book. Suppressed feelings have a way of coming to the surface at times we least expect.
I believe Joseph's story teaches us three essential steps in how we can Let Go and Let God:
Release the Pain of the Past
Just as Joseph wept and released his pent-up emotions, we too must confront and let go of our past hurts. Holding onto past pain only hinders our ability to move forward. As Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
Repurpose Your Purpose
Joseph's journey from a young dreamer to a wise leader exemplifies the importance of repurposing our lives. What may seem like setbacks can be opportunities for growth and new purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." Embrace the changes and allow God to repurpose your life for His glory.
Rest on the Promises of God
In times of uncertainty, we must learn to trust in God's promises. Joseph reassured his brothers, saying, "Do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your children" (Genesis 50:21). Similarly, we can find comfort in knowing that God is our provider and protector. As Jehovah Jireh, He is our provider and will make a way when there seems to be no way.
As we navigate life's challenges, let us remember that God is always in control. He will come to our aid, redeem us, and lead us to what He has promised. Just as Joseph instructed for his bones to be carried to the land of promise, this is not our final destination for God has an even greater reward in glory for those who trust Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to release the pain of my past, repurpose my life according to Your will, and rest on Your promises. Grant me the strength to surrender fully to You, trusting that You will guide me through every trial and triumph. In Jesus' name, Amen.
The story of Joseph in the Bible offers profound insights into the process of letting go and letting God take control. Joseph faced numerous detours, disappointments, and delays on his journey to fulfill his dreams. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers and enduring years of hardship, Joseph ultimately recognized that it was God who had orchestrated his path. In Genesis 45:8, Joseph tells his brothers, "It was not you who sent me here, but God."
After their father Jacob died, Joseph's brothers feared retribution for their past wrongs (Genesis 50:15-21). They approached Joseph with a message, supposedly from their father, asking for forgiveness. Joseph's response was one of grace and forgiveness. However, he wept, not out of anger, but because I believe he was still holding on to things he had not fully surrendered as explained by David Hawkins in his book. Suppressed feelings have a way of coming to the surface at times we least expect.
I believe Joseph's story teaches us three essential steps in how we can Let Go and Let God:
Release the Pain of the Past
Just as Joseph wept and released his pent-up emotions, we too must confront and let go of our past hurts. Holding onto past pain only hinders our ability to move forward. As Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
Repurpose Your Purpose
Joseph's journey from a young dreamer to a wise leader exemplifies the importance of repurposing our lives. What may seem like setbacks can be opportunities for growth and new purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." Embrace the changes and allow God to repurpose your life for His glory.
Rest on the Promises of God
In times of uncertainty, we must learn to trust in God's promises. Joseph reassured his brothers, saying, "Do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your children" (Genesis 50:21). Similarly, we can find comfort in knowing that God is our provider and protector. As Jehovah Jireh, He is our provider and will make a way when there seems to be no way.
As we navigate life's challenges, let us remember that God is always in control. He will come to our aid, redeem us, and lead us to what He has promised. Just as Joseph instructed for his bones to be carried to the land of promise, this is not our final destination for God has an even greater reward in glory for those who trust Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to release the pain of my past, repurpose my life according to Your will, and rest on Your promises. Grant me the strength to surrender fully to You, trusting that You will guide me through every trial and triumph. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Recent
Archive
Categories
no categories
Tags
no tags
No Comments