I cannot count the number of times I have heard these two phrases used in Christianity. It’s confusing. In some situations, we’re told to have faith, keep holding on but in others we’re told to let go and put in the hands of the Lord. Which one is it? How can I know which one I’m supposed to do?

First, consider your frame of mind.

When you choose to let go of something you are making a conscience decision that comes from a place of faith and acceptance. In Hebrews 12:1 we’re told that, “Believers are thus called to forfeit anything holding them from spiritual growth.” Whereas giving up is a lack of faith. In this you’re thinking of failure and inability.

Second let’s consider control.

Letting go is about releasing control of the situation to the Lord. You’re still concerned about the outcome, but you are choosing to trust in the Lord for the outcome. You will continue praying about it, but you are doing as Peter says in 1 Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Third, let’s consider freedom vs. failure.

When you choose to let go of something you are choosing to free yourself from the emotional and spiritual war raging within you. You feel lighter and liberated when you stop trying to carry the burdens of life alone (Matt. 11:28-30). On the other hand, when you give up, there is a sense of failure which weighs you down as you walk through life and hinders you from moving forward.

Fourth, consider the outcomes of peace and shame.

              When you make the choice to let go of some burden or failure weighing you down, placing it in the hands of Jesus, there will be a sense of peace as a result. In Phil. 4:6-7, Paul tells us that God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds when we turn it over to Him in prayer. On the other hand, when we give up, there is an overwhelming sense of failure and sadness attached to it.

Lastly, consider looking forward or backwards.

              The last thing to consider here is the differences between those who give up versus those who let go. The person who let’s go is focused on the future and possibilities whereas the person who is giving up is focused on the past and their failures. When you’re stuck looking back it hinders your ability to move into the future.

Letting go aligns well with Phil. 3:13-14 where Paul says we are to forget about the past and strain toward what lies ahead. If you have given up remember the words of Prov. 24:16, “the righteous falls seven times and rises again.” As the Lord’s glorious family, it’s time to get back up and commit whatever struggle you are holding onto to the Lord’s gracious hands.