The Experiment – letting go with out boundaries

This past week I conducted an experiment of how many times I heard the phrase: "let it go." I counted, at least, 8 times! It is a common phrase. I discovered, whether it's used to instruct or to examine one's situation, it's always in reference to a release of control, and it's important as to whom you release it. Today's society encourages the mentality to let go and do whatever feels good - to you. This encourages a loss of control with no boundaries. If you have ever surrendered something or in the need to, heed this warning: Remember who you released it to! You may be easily tricked into letting go to the point you stop caring all together. How does this happen?

It's difficult to let go; specifically when you have been hurt. The easy way to get over the pain is to block emotion. Like having a mask on, when underneath you look different. You live life any way it pleases you in order to hide your true identity. This is when the enemy can tempt you into thinking you have no need to let go of anything. Do you understand? You must be aware that when this happens, you will be going around in circles. It's a false happiness that will only lead to the realization you really are not at peace or, you have gone right back to where you have started - having to let go again. Tired yet? Try taking your mask off and face the truth with God. Be real! He loves you and wants to give you rest. This is why good boundaries are necessary. Like; telling a child to not touch the hot stove. It's for your protection. Scripture is your guide: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths." ~ Proverbs 3:5-6 (HCSB)

One way to accomplish the right boundaries is to start serving! It may be challenging at first but if you have the perspective that you are serving the Lord, you can do it. Pray for His strength. In His strength you can do anything. Serve so they see Christ's love through you. When you do, you will remember who you released your control to in the first place and you can continue to be used by God. You won't stop caring! It will be an out pouring of being genuine with God. Scripture says, in Colossians 3:17, "...whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him (HCSB)."

In my experiment, I think half the "let it go" statements I heard were directed towards me! I have a lot still to learn about letting go but the key is, I'm still learning. Therefore, I am always reminded who I serve and this keeps me within the right boundaries. I have spent a long time in prayer while writing this blog. Some people reading this may be under so much turmoil, that they may need time to heal, forgive, or seek council before they are able to serve. There is nothing wrong with this and I strongly encourage it. In my life, when I was finally able to let go and serve others, it brought about the forgiveness and healing, in time. I concluded, unfortunately, there is always someone else in a much worse situation than me.

This week, listen out for the "let it go" phrase - discover what you can learn. Ask yourself if you have the right boundaries in place. Have you let go so far that you have stopped caring?

"Heavenly Father, please help me to stay within your boundaries. I let go to serve in your name, Jesus Christ. Please give me a servants heart toward others. Help me in the process to be real to you, myself, and others."

 © Carol Outhous Jones 2014