Introduction
Past hurts can pull us down. They stop us from moving forward and expect the good plans God has for us.
There are key moments in life when reflecting and letting go becomes necessary. As we approach the end of another year, it’s natural to look back on the experiences that have shaped us—the joys, the challenges, the regrets, and the growth.
But reflecting on the past shouldn’t only happen at year-end. There are many other seasons when we are called to reflect and let go. Whether it’s after a season of grief, a broken friendship or relationship, losing a loved one, or recovery from sickness, these moments give us the opportunity to pause, process, and release what no longer serves us.
Mourning the loss of someone dear to us can make it difficult to let go of the sadness, yet God promises to bring comfort and peace when we lay our pain before Him.
Likewise, the pain from a broken relationship can cling to our hearts, but through God’s grace, we are empowered to forgive, heal, and move forward.
After facing long-term illness, reflecting and letting go might involve releasing fear and doubt about the future and trusting God for healing and restoration.
In all these situations, letting go is not just a recommendation—it’s a spiritual act of faith.
God wants us to release the burdens we’ve carried, whether from our own mistakes, the actions of others, or circumstances beyond our control. His Word gives us the encouragement and strength to move forward.
Letting go allows us to embrace the future that God has planned for us—a future filled with hope, renewal, and peace.
In this devotional study, we dive into 8 biblical truths to guide us in letting go and focusing on what lies ahead, no matter what season of life we find ourselves in.
At the end of this devotional Bible study blog post, you can download your FREE Bible reading & Bible study plan, that comes with a reading plan, summaries, study and reflective questions, and journaling and SOAP study worksheets.
And… each section has its own Bible study lesson with free printables (just click o the links on those sections).
8 Biblical Truths to Help Us Let Go of the Past and Embrace God’s Future
At the end of another year, and during other seasons of our lives, it’s natural to reflect on everything that’s happened—the highs, the lows, the regrets, and the growth.
But what if we didn’t just reflect?
What if we took this time to release the things from the past that are holding us back and embrace the fresh start that a new year offers?
Letting go of the past is not only healthy, but is also something God calls us to do. His Word provides encouragement, wisdom, and strength to help us move forward into the future He has planned for us.
1. Let Go of Sin
Sin is a heavy burden that can weigh us down, but through Christ, we are forgiven.
We no longer have to be chained to our past mistakes. God’s grace is greater than any sin, and when we confess and repent, He forgives and wipes our slate clean.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 (NIV)
Letting go of sin, opens the door to find freedom in God’s grace.
2. Let Go of Guilt
Guilt can linger even after we’ve repented. But living in guilt denies the power of Christ’s sacrifice.
We need to accept His forgiveness and forgive ourselves. Holding onto guilt can prevent us from fully experiencing the freedom God offers us.
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1 (NIV)
God desires for you to live in peace and joy. By letting go of guilt, you can embrace Christ’s complete forgiveness and the abundant life He has for you.
3. Let Go of the Pain
Life’s hurts are inevitable, but holding onto pain can prevent healing. God offers us peace and healing if we are willing to surrender our hurts to Him.
Letting go of pain allows room for God’s comfort and joy to fill our hearts.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3 (NIV)
When you let go of pain, you open yourself to find healing in God.
4. Let Go of the Shame
Shame is a tool the enemy uses to make us feel unworthy of God’s love. But in Christ, we are new creations, free from the shame of our past.
When we let go of shame, we can walk in the confidence of who we are in Christ.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)
It is only when you let go of shame that you can discover the power of God’s redemption.
5. Let Go of Old Things
Clinging to the past—whether it’s old habits, friendships, or ways of thinking—keeps us stuck.
God calls us to let go of the old and step into the new life He has for us. He is always doing something new, but we have to be willing to release the old to embrace it.
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)
When you let go of the old things in your life, you can embrace the new life God has for you.
6. Let Go of the Things That Have Hurt You
Past hurts and betrayals can fester if we hold onto them.
Letting go and forgiving those who have hurt us doesn’t mean what they did was okay—it means we are no longer letting their actions control our lives.
By letting go, we free ourselves.
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
When you truly let go of hurt, you free yourself from pain. It is then that you can fully embrace the healing God has for you.
7. Let Go of the Past Mindset
Sometimes the hardest thing to let go of is the mindset that has shaped us.
Whether it’s fear, insecurity, or doubt, God calls us to renew our minds and walk in the truth of who He says we are.
With a new mindset, we can step confidently into the future God has for us.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 (NIV)
Let go of your past mindset and step into God’s truth today!
8. Let Go of Your Past Identity
You are not who you once were. In Christ, you have a new identity as His beloved child.
Letting go of your old identity, failures, and limitations allows you to embrace the fullness of who God has called you to be.
“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:3 (NIV)
One of the best choices you can make in life is to let go of your past identity and embrace who you are in Christ.
Reflect and Move Forward into God’s Plan
As we prepare to step into a new year, or a new season of life, let’s choose to let go of what’s behind and focus on what God has ahead for us. It may not always be easy, but when we trust Him with our past, we can embrace the new opportunities and blessings He has in store for us.
Letting go of the past is an act of faith, trusting that God’s plan for your future is far greater than anything you’ve left behind.
Continue to read the personal devotion questions.
But… don’t forget to get your FREE Bible reading & study plan about LETTING GO OF THE PAST.
You can also download a FULL Letting Go of the Past Bible Devotional Guide
Personal Bible Study Questions
Each of the above 8 themes of letting go of the past has its own Bible study devotion with reflection questions.
However, here are general study questions about the topic of letting go of the past.
Reflection Questions:
- What burdens or regrets are you still holding onto from your past?
- How has guilt or shame affected your relationship with God and others?
- What new mindset do you need to embrace to walk in the freedom God offers?
- Is there someone you need to forgive so you can fully let go of the past?
- How can letting go of your past identity help you step into God’s future for you?
Practical Application Questions:
- Take some time to confess any lingering guilt or sin to God. How does it feel to know He forgives you?
- Write down any past hurts or pains that are weighing on you. What can you do this week to start letting them go?
- Identify one old habit or mindset that you need to leave behind. How can you replace it with God’s truth?
- Are there any relationships or commitments that are keeping you stuck in the past? What steps can you take to move forward?
- Consider your goals and dreams for the coming year. How can focusing on God’s plans for your future help you release the past?
Let go and let God lead you into the beautiful future He has prepared for you!
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