When It is Time to Let Go

But Pharaoh hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go. Exodus 8:32 (New American Standard Bible)

Pharaoh’s refusal to let the children of Israel go was driven by a heart of refusal in regards to God and His ways. Time and time again we come across the phrase found in today’s verse. Each time, it results in further judgment via plagues. Even when Pharaoh claims to be ready to release the people, there is no intent for him to actually do so. What he is holding on to is the very thing that brings God’s hand against him. Each time his stubbornness is exposed, God’s power and control are revealed. It actually brings about the ruin of his land, his army, his people, and his kingdom as he knew it. Just when he thought he was having his way, he wasn’t. It wasn’t worth it for Pharaoh to hold on to that which God was telling him to let go of and it is never worth it for us.

If each of us is honest, we will admit to times when God has told us to “let go!” It may have come through His Word as we read it. It may have come through His Spirit speaking to us in the quiet moments. It may have come through watching another individual live with the consequences of holding on instead of letting go. It may even have been through a ‘Moses’ in our own life who has spoken clearly of what we need to release. Whatever the case may be, we know that we know what we need to let go of. Be it a habit, a way of thinking, or a way of living, we are on dangerous ground when a stubborn heart rules us rather than a submissive spirit. When we tighten rather than loosen our grip.

Pharaoh is a reminder to me that even when we think we are calling the shots and getting our way, we are not. God is sovereign and He is in control. Ultimately He always gets the last word. While this frustrated Pharaoh, it should be reassuring to us. How different the scenario would have been had Pharaoh not had a hardened heart. Had he obeyed God’s command to let His people go. But he didn’t.

I don’t want to be like Pharaoh and I don’t want my life story to play out like his. I am at a place of decision in my life. That which I am holding on to is causing me difficulty, discomfort, and distress. It is a mindset that has a hold on me because I have a hold of it. If I release it there will be change for the good. If I hold on to it, there will be consequences that will be painful. I am looking to God to show me how to let go, how to release, and how to walk in the freedom that He desires for me.

Father, give to me a heart of flesh that pulsates with obedience and love for you. That which You have put Your finger on is presently still in my hands and mind. Give me the grace to finally let go. Amen.

Power of Your Love - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga6Qtxzd6vk&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.