Release is my one-word for the year. Like new, momentum and miracle from previous years, this word comes with a rescue. Remembering a walk with my sister’s dog helped me see the necessity.

Buddy is a mild-mannered English pit bull, most of the time. But when he saw a rabbit, he barked and lunged forward in a frenzy. I quickly wrapped his leash around my hands. Instantly, I realized my stop Buddy strategy wasn’t a good idea.

The tightening leash applied more pressure than my hand could handle. So, I let go. I was no longer in control. My hold on the leash was no longer productive.

I see this same principle in life. It happens when a burden becomes too stressful or unforgiveness stifles my ability to love. And yet, it also includes the times when a distraction goes from being a delightful detour to becoming a problem (like my web browsing for a new room design, when I should clean the room as it’s already designed).

As I contemplate burdens, unforgiveness, and distractions, it’s no wonder “release” is my one-word this year. They each form a leash wrapped tightly around my soul. But God has a “stop the stress” strategy. It requires us to release our weariness for His rest.

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light” (Matthew 11:28-30 NLT).

If something is weighing heavy on our minds or if a hurt has gone deeper into our soul, there’s an invitation from Jesus. In Him, release is a good place to rest.

Yet, there are lessons we need to receive. Jesus wants to teach us with His “humble and gentle heart.”  His yoke gently guides us to live without the heaviness of our burdens or the stubbornness of our pride. Even as He leads us into what’s unknown from our perspective, it is fully known to Him. It is fully under His good and perfect control.

Now back to Buddy and me. As he took off to chase the bunny, I let out a heavy sigh. Thankfully, the rabbit escaped. I grabbed the leash and Buddy and I continued our walk. But that’s where my analogy ends. As I walk with the Lord, He never lets go of me. He’s holding onto you too, friend. However, no leash is involved.

Instead, God’s love and wisdom guides us into the wonder of His will. But our hands need to be free of anything that keeps us from taking hold of His.

As we release what God says to let go, He leads us into something greater.

You may have a different one-word, or a different way to find focus. But as we come to Jesus, there are greater levels of peace, joy, and growth by His grace. I look forward to sharing more of my “release” journey on the blog this year. Here’s a way to prayerfully begin.

PRAYER: Dear God, Thank You for Your call to let go of what hinders my walk with You. I confess the worries that steal my peace, the hurts I’ve let linger too long, and the distractions that compete with Your priorities. Forgive me for allowing these things to tighten their grip on my soul. I receive Your strength to let go. I welcome wearing Your yoke. Thank You for every blessing it brings. In Jesus’ name, amen.

JOY TO THE SOUL: “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 NLT).