Releasing What Separates Us from God: A Call to Purify Our Lives
This past Sunday, I was deeply moved by Father Mike's homily from Ascension. He spoke about the importance of examining the things in our lives that pull us away from God—the addictions, distractions, sins, and even relationships that keep us from fully experiencing God's love and joy. His words hit home and inspired me to reflect on how I, too, can remove these barriers from my own life.
Recognizing What Separates Us from God
Often, we may not realize how many things in our lives gradually or not-so-gradually separate us from God. Whether it's toxic relationships, harmful habits, or even our own emotional struggles, these things can slowly distance us from His presence. I’ve found that they create barriers to true peace, joy, and fulfillment.
Toxic Relationships
We all have those friendships or relationships in our lives that might cause more harm than good. Perhaps you have a friend who encourages gossip or negativity, or one who consistently brings you down instead of lifting you up. These relationships can hinder your spiritual growth, and they may be leading you further away from God. It’s important to recognize when a relationship is no longer uplifting and when it’s time to set healthy boundaries or move on.
Addictions and Distractions
For some of us, the barriers are more internal—addictions or habits we don’t always recognize as destructive. Whether it’s gambling, pornography, social media, or even the constant need for approval or validation, these distractions pull us away from the peace and joy God wants for us. We often turn to these things to fill a void, but they only leave us feeling more empty in the end.
The Power of Music, Media, and News
Believe it or not, even the music, media, and news we consume can impact our spiritual well-being. If we find ourselves listening to songs that promote negativity, anger, or unholy desires, or watching content that leads us away from the values we hold dear, we are inviting distractions that separate us from God's peace. Music, movies, and social media are powerful, and we must be mindful of what we allow into our hearts.
Even consuming too much news can pull us away from God’s presence. Constant exposure to negative headlines, conflict, and fear can make us anxious, overwhelmed, and disconnected from God’s peace. It can be easy to get caught up in the chaos and negativity of the world, but we must remember that God is our ultimate source of hope and stability. Take time to step away from the news and focus on God's promises and love for you, remembering that He is in control.
Releasing What Holds Us Back
So, how do we begin this process of releasing the things that separate us from God? It starts with awareness and intentionality. We must first become aware of what those things are—whether they’re toxic friendships, unhealthy habits, or distractions that keep us from focusing on God. Then, we must intentionally choose to let go, trusting that God is calling us to something better.
Here are a few steps to begin:
1. Pray for Guidance: Ask God to reveal to you what is separating you from Him. Pray for the strength to release these things, and ask for the wisdom to make room for more of Him in your life.
2. Identify and Set Boundaries: Take a moment to evaluate the relationships or habits that may be leading you away from God. Is there a friendship that fuels negativity or gossip? Is there a pattern of behavior (such as excessive social media use) that steals your time and peace? Setting healthy boundaries is an act of spiritual discipline.
3. Remove the Distractions : Once you've identified what needs to go, take action. It might mean cutting back on time spent in front of a screen or limiting exposure to certain people or content. Allowing more time for prayer, reflection, and connection with God is essential to fill the void.
4. Replace the Old with the New: When we remove something from our lives, it's essential to replace it with something positive. Maybe this means filling your free time with prayer, attending church, or investing in relationships that uplift and encourage you in your faith.
God’s Grace is Enough
Releasing what separates us from God isn't easy, but it’s worth it. It requires courage to confront the things in our lives that have kept us bound, but remember that God’s grace is sufficient. As we remove these distractions and sins, we make space for His joy, peace, and love to fill our hearts.
I want to encourage you, just as Father Mike inspired me, to examine your life and ask yourself: what is separating you from God? What can you release to make room for Him? Don’t be afraid to let go of what’s holding you back, because in the end, God always has something better in store for us.
Lord, I come before You today with an open heart. I ask that You reveal to me the things in my life that are separating me from Your love. Help me to let go of the distractions, the toxic relationships, and the sins that keep me from fully embracing Your joy and peace. Give me the strength to make room for You, and the courage to trust in Your plan for my life. Amen.
