Do you have something in your life that you never use but you can’t get rid of because of the feelings, memories or emotions that item(s) bring you? You are not alone.
When I was in in elementary school, I was given four little books of the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. As I already have a Bible with those books in them, I didn’t ever read them. I would read them in my Bible. I have no use for them but yet I have kept them for probably 45-50 years.
Many times I have thought of donating them. I haven’t. I still have those four little treasures.
They don’t take up much space. No real need to get rid of them.
Why is it so hard for me to part with them? Feelings. Memories. Emotions. Can you relate?
I don’t remember exactly the reason I received them or where but I think it was because I accomplished something.
It might have been for memorizing a certain amount of Bible verses. I don’t remember. BUT I received them because I had ACCOMPLISHED SOMETHING! Someone saw value in me. I was noticed. It made me feel smart and important. Quiet little me who was often made fun of or ignored, for a moment, felt respected and accepted.
So, when I see those four little gospel books, I am reminded of that brief moment, during a difficult time in my life, I was acknowledged for a good thing I had completed.
Now that I am much older and hopefully wiser, I have come to realize that I don’t need things to remind me of my worth.
I am chosen (John 15:16). I am loved (Jeremiah 31:3). I am valuable (Matthew 10:31). I am treasured (Isaiah 43:4). I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Because of Whose I am, I don’t need earthly things to prove my worth. God loves me unconditionally and has accepted me into His family.
So, I am giving myself permission to let go of the four little gospel books. The memory of that time I will treasure. I pray that someone else will be blessed by them.
How about you? Are you holding on to certain things because they make you feel worthy? Loved? Accepted? Important? Is it time to let that go? Is it taking up unnecessary space? It’s okay to let it go and remove it from your home. That item does not define who you are.
If you are struggling with holding on to too many sentimental items, maybe read the verses I have listed above and allow God to speak to you. You certainly don’t have to get rid of everything. Start with one or two items. Releasing the power they have over you, is a beautiful thing.