In life, we often face the challenge of knowing when to hold on to relationships and when to let go. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 teaches us that there is a season for everything and a time for every purpose under heaven. Sometimes, tearing down and separation are necessary steps for growth and well-being. In other seasons, holding on to something or someone, regardless of the cost, may be the right choice. Stop managing relationships that have outlived its purpose. Understanding and discerning these times and seasons is crucial for our personal and spiritual development.
One reason people tend to hold on to relationships that are way past their end is due to a fear of the unknown. We are naturally wired to fear what we do not know, often saying, “The devil you know is better than the angel you don’t know.” However, this perspective is flawed. With billions of people on God’s earth, it is statistically, physically, and emotionally impossible to cultivate one-on-one relationships with everyone. Losing certain relationships is not a big deal; there are many options and alternatives. Embracing this truth can free us from the fear that holds us back, allowing us to move forward with confidence and faith.
There is a time to love, and a time to refrain from loving. It is perfectly fine to drop off relationships or to completely redefine the dynamics of a key relationship. As Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Letting go of or reshaping relationships is part of discerning and embracing the seasons in our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will, ensuring that our relationships serve their divine purpose and contribute to our growth and fulfillment.
