We all tend to hold on to old things, whether it’s a friendship that no longer serves us, a way of thinking that limits us, or habits that weigh us down. While it’s normal to cherish memories or to feel attached to the familiar, there comes a time when holding on to the past can hinder our growth. That’s when we need t let go of old things…

The Bible tells us that God is always at work, doing new things in our lives. He wants us to release the old and embrace the new blessings He has for us.

In Isaiah 43:18-19, we are reminded to,

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”

This verse speaks directly to the heart of what it means to let go of the old. By focusing on past experiences—whether they were good or bad—we risk missing out on the fresh, life-giving opportunities that God is placing before us today.

Are you clinging to something old that is holding you back?

It might be time to step out in faith and trust that God’s plans are even better than what you’re holding on to.

This page may have ads showing. I know they may distract, but it’s how I keep these studies free for you. So I apologize in advance. And don’t worry, at the end of this lesson, you can download a FREE printable version that is ad-free. Simply download and toss it into your study binder!

The Old Has Passed Away

Letting go of old things can feel daunting, but it’s necessary for growth. 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us,

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

In Christ, we are made new. That means our past—our mistakes, our regrets, our old ways of living—no longer defines us.

God has given us a new identity, and with that comes the invitation to walk in freedom.

You don’t have to live tied to the old things that weigh you down. Instead, you can live in the newness of Christ, fully embracing His grace and love.

This truth brings us hope, but it also comes with a challenge: Are you ready to let go of the old in order to step into the new?

Sometimes, we cling to old habits or relationships because they feel safe, even when they’re no longer beneficial to us. But in doing so, we limit the work God wants to do in our lives.

God is calling you to release those things that no longer serve His purpose in your life and embrace the fresh path He has laid out for you.

Trust God with the New

Trusting God with the unknown is never easy. Letting go of what’s familiar can feel risky, but it’s an act of faith that allows us to see His work more clearly.

Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

When you let go of the old, trust that God has something better for you in the future. He will guide you, strengthen you, and give you peace as you move forward.

It’s important to remember that letting go doesn’t mean forgetting what we’ve learned.

Sometimes, the old things—our past struggles, mistakes, or even relationships—taught us valuable lessons. But we don’t need to keep reliving them.

Instead, we can take what we’ve learned, apply it, and move forward with a new mindset.

Reflect and Move On

Is there something old in your life that you need to let go of?

Perhaps it’s a past mistake, a relationship, or an old habit that is no longer aligned with where God is leading you. Holding onto these things can prevent you from experiencing the fullness of God’s promises for your life.

I encourage you to take the time to reflect.

Are you clinging to the past in a way that’s keeping you stuck? Ask God to help you release the old so that you can embrace the new.

Letting go isn’t easy, but it’s worth it when you realize the freedom and blessings God has in store for you. Trust that as you release the old, God is already working on something beautiful and new in your life.

Bible Study & Reflection Questions

Reflection Questions

  1. What old things are you holding onto that may be hindering your spiritual growth?
  2. How does trusting God help you release the things that no longer serve you?
  3. In what ways can you see God doing something new in your life right now?
  4. Are there specific relationships or habits from your past that you need to release?
  5. How does knowing that you are a new creation in Christ encourage you to let go of old ways of thinking?

Practical Application Questions

  1. Write down one old habit or mindset that you want to let go of. How can you replace it with something positive?
  2. Pray about any relationships that might hold you back. What steps can you take to establish healthier boundaries or let go of unhealthy connections?
  3. Reflect on Isaiah 43:18-19. How can you embrace the new thing God is doing in your life today?
  4. Identify one area where you’re still holding onto past hurt or regret. How can you ask God for healing and move forward?
  5. Commit to trusting God in one specific area of your life where you’re tempted to lean on old ways. How can you actively show that trust?

Letting go of old things is a beautiful act of trust and faith.

As you release the things that no longer serve you, you’re creating space for God to work in new and exciting ways in your life.

Take heart—God is always doing something new, and His plans for you are good. Embrace the future with hope and confidence, knowing that He is with you every step of the way.

Get here your FREE devotional Bible study lesson about letting go of old things. (Printable of this lesson with the study & reflection questions).

Download here your FULL Letting Go of the Past Bible Reading & Study Plan!