Life has a way of moving us through seasons—some filled with joy, others with heartbreak or hard decisions. Whether you’re facing the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, a broken friendship, or simply stepping into the unknown, letting go can be one of the hardest things to do.
But the Bible offers real help and comfort for these moments. Through God’s Word, we find strength to release what’s behind us and hope for what’s ahead.
In this post, we’ll look at 15 powerful Bible verses about moving on and letting go. These scriptures offer peace, clarity, and encouragement to walk forward in faith, even when the path feels uncertain.
Key Takeaways
- Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting—it means trusting God with the future.
- Moving on can be spiritual growth, not failure.
- These Bible verses offer comfort, wisdom, and guidance through life’s transitions.
1. Philippians 3:13-14
Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal…
Explanation:
Paul encourages believers to let go of the past and focus on God’s purpose. The goal is ahead—not behind—and spiritual growth happens when we press forward.
2. Isaiah 43:18-19
Do not call to mind the former things, or consider things of the past. Behold, I am going to do something new…
Explanation:
God calls us to release the past so we can embrace the new things He wants to do. Clinging to yesterday can keep us from stepping into tomorrow.
3. Ecclesiastes 3:1,6
There is an appointed time for everything… a time to keep, and a time to throw away.
Explanation:
Seasons change, and sometimes that means it’s time to let go. This verse reminds us that moving on is part of God’s natural rhythm for life.
4. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.
Explanation:
When we’re in Christ, our identity changes—and so does our future. Letting go of the past allows the new life God has given us to flourish.
5. Matthew 11:28-30
Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest… For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.
Explanation:
Letting go often includes surrendering burdens. Jesus invites us to release the weight we carry and rest in His grace.
6. Proverbs 4:25-27
Let your eyes look directly ahead, and let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you… Do not turn to the right or to the left; turn your foot from evil.
Explanation:
God calls us to stay focused forward. Looking back can distract us or lead us off course. This verse urges us to walk with purpose and direction.
7. Lamentations 3:22-23
The Lord’s acts of mercy indeed do not end, for His compassions do not fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.
Explanation:
Every day is a fresh start with God. His mercy is a daily invitation to move on from the past and step into grace.
8. Romans 8:28
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God…
Explanation:
Even painful moments have purpose. Trusting this truth helps us release what we can’t understand and lean on the One who sees the whole picture.
9. Genesis 19:26
But Lot’s wife, from behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.
Explanation:
This verse is a warning about looking back. Lot’s wife couldn’t move on, and it cost her everything. Letting go is not just wise—it’s often necessary for survival.
10. Hebrews 12:1
Let us rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…
Explanation:
To run the race well, we have to let go of whatever weighs us down. This verse encourages spiritual focus and freedom.
11. Psalm 34:18
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Explanation:
Moving on can break your heart, but God is close in those moments. He doesn’t expect us to move forward without comfort—He walks with us.
12. Ephesians 4:31-32
All bitterness, wrath, anger… must be removed from you… Be kind to one another… forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
Explanation:
Letting go includes releasing anger and offering forgiveness. This kind of freedom heals both the heart and the soul.
13. Isaiah 55:8-9
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.
Explanation:
We may not understand why we have to let go—but God does. Trusting His higher plan brings peace in uncertain transitions.
14. Luke 9:62
But Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that discipleship means forward motion. Constantly looking back slows our spiritual growth and dims our vision.
15. Colossians 3:2
Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth.
Explanation:
Letting go becomes easier when our focus shifts to eternal things. What matters most is God’s purpose, not the past we’ve left behind.
Final Thoughts: Letting Go with God’s Grace
Letting go is rarely easy, but it is often necessary. These Bible verses about moving on and letting go remind us that healing, hope, and growth are possible when we place our trust in God. He never asks us to move forward alone—He walks with us, guides us, and gives us peace beyond understanding.
As you move through life’s transitions, remember that God’s future for you is always better than anything you leave behind.
Share Your Journey
Have you had a season where God helped you move on?
Is there a verse here that spoke directly to your heart?
We’d love to hear from you in the comments. Share your story or favorite scripture and let’s encourage one another through God’s Word.