If Someone Has Recently Walked Away From You, Cling to These Three Truths
“If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25, CSB)
As we get further into this new year, chances are, you’re adjusting to change in some form.
Maybe one of those changes is someone who you did life with last year that is no longer here. And not because they passed away, instead, they chose to walk away.
First of all, I’m so sorry. I don’t have to know the details to know that relationships can be so complicated.
Secondly, I also know the rollercoaster of emotions that come after a falling out. From deep sadness and grief, the aches of loneliness, wondering why they left, anger that grows into resentment and eventful numbness. It’s all so hard.
Then, you have a moment of clarity and come to this realization: Yes, they left. Maybe you know why or you don’t, it doesn’t really matter. But that’s not the whole story.
Friend, can I encourage you today? Them leaving is a loss. Loneliness is horribly painful. But there is a God who is with you in the midst of that pain.
I’ve been in your shoes and I know how tender your heart must feel. But I also want to share these three truths with you:
Even when we feel abandoned, we have the never-fleeing presence of the Holy Spirit.
This person’s absence may have been making you feel worthless, but the presence of the Holy Spirit staying is a reminder to you that you have unsurpassed worth.
This relationship may have ended, but that doesn’t make you a failure.
If no one else has ever said this to you, I want to say it to you: You are not defined by your successes. You are not defined by your failures. Your value and worth come intrinsically from being made in the image and likeness of God. And nothing can shake that.
In case you’re not fully-convinced, look at Romans 5:6: “While we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly” (ESV). My favorite part is when it says “while we were still weak”. We aren’t bothering God when we feel weak; He delights in helping us. Through mistakes and regrets, our own sinful choices and the hurtful decisions of others, we may feel broken, but we aren’t beyond the reach of our Savior.
The best is still yet to come.
At some point, we have to make the decision to leave behind what was and embrace what will be. When you are ready to take that step, just know the Spirit of God is with you as your guide just like it says in Galatians 5:25 “If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” (CSB)
Though you’re experiencing heartbreak right now, I pray this is a time of closeness with Jesus like never before. You are loved, friend.
Lord, though I struggle to believe it at times, I know You are close to me in my pain. Even when I feel lonely, abandoned or even hopeless, You are here. I am not alone. Your Spirit is here. Your presence is here. Your power is here. I entrust every part of my life to You … my good and gracious Heavenly Father. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Do you ever wish you had a secret weapon to help you through the increasingly difficult seasons of life? While we aren't superheroes and invincibility isn't an option, humility is. Walk through hurtful situations in the most God-honoring way by gaining a true understanding of biblical humility with Dr. Joel Muddamalle’s new book, The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength, and Confidence Through Humility.