Practical Steps to Letting Go and Finding True Freedom
Let’s be honest: we all have “idols” in our lives—things we put at the very center of our hearts. Maybe it’s success, money, relationships, approval, comfort, or something else. These idols are anything we treat as more important than God or as the thing that will finally make us feel whole. The problem is, when we build our lives around these things, they always come up short. They demand more and more but give less and less.
So how do we start to let go? The process is called “mortification” (which just means “putting to death”), and it’s really about turning away from these false gods and turning back to the real One. Here’s how you can begin, explained in everyday language—with simple prayers you can use:
Step 1: Get Specific—Name Your Idols
The first step is admitting exactly what has taken center stage in your life. Be honest with yourself and with God. Instead of vague confessions, name what you’ve been chasing.
Simple prayer:
“God, these are the things I keep putting before you. I’ve been building my life around (fill in the blank—my career, my image, people’s approval, my comfort, whatever it is). I see now how this has taken over my thoughts and decisions.”
Step 2: Unmask the Illusions
Our idols trick us. They seem big and powerful, but really, they’re not as great as we think. Take a step back and ask yourself: How is this thing lying to me? How is it controlling my thinking or making me hide from the truth?
Simple prayer:
“God, I see how my desire for (fill in the blank—maybe status, money, control) is making me ignore what’s really good for me. I’ve made this thing seem bigger than it is. Please help me see it for what it truly is.”
Step 3: Recognize How Weak Idols Actually Are
Idols aren’t bad in themselves—they’re just not enough. They’re limited. Remind yourself that good things (like success, love, or comfort) can’t give you the deep meaning or love you need.
Simple prayer:
“Lord, I know this thing is good, but it’s not everything. Why have I made it so important? If I have you, I have what I truly need. This thing can’t love me or save me like you can.”
Step 4: See How Dangerous Idols Can Be
Idols always want more. They can start to control us, and if we’re not careful, they’ll mess us up. Be honest about how chasing this idol is hurting you.
Simple prayer:
“God, why am I letting this run my life? If I keep going down this road, it’s going to destroy me. I don’t want to be controlled by this anymore. I want you to be in charge instead.”
Step 5: Understand How Much It Hurts God (and You)
When we give our hearts to idols, we’re turning away from the One who loves us most. It’s like telling God, “You’re not enough.” That hurts not just God, but us, too. Recognize the sadness and ask for forgiveness.
Simple prayer:
“Lord, I’m sorry for making this thing more important than you. I’ve taken your love for granted. Please forgive me. Help me to be grateful for who you are and all you’ve done.”
In Summary
Letting go of idols isn’t just about saying “no” to something. It’s about saying “yes” to a relationship with a God who loves you, who is enough, and who offers freedom and joy far greater than anything else. It takes honesty, courage, and a willingness to keep coming back to God when you stumble. But the hope is real: you’re not stuck, and you don’t have to do this alone.
If you want, you can use the prayers above or make your own. The most important thing is to be honest, open, and willing to let God reshape your heart. Letting go is hard, but it’s worth it.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 