Let’s lay down what isn’t good…

Have you ever thought about what the theme verse for 2026 might mean for you?

“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21, ESV)

Now that we’re no longer at the very beginning of the year, I want to ask you: what have you carried into this new year—despite good intentions—that isn’t actually good for you?

When God led the people of Israel out of Egypt, they also brought something into the wilderness that didn’t belong there anymore: a captive mentality. With it came a mindset of mistrust, complaining, and lack—even though God was leading them into freedom.

That inner attitude led to dissatisfaction and rebellion against God. They forgot that they had been slaves in Egypt, but God wanted to lead them into something better—freedom (see Exodus 14).

Let me remind you of this today: God has set you free—so live like someone who has been set free!

And if you don’t really feel that freedom today, ask yourself this question: “Where have I not only held on to what is good, but also kept what isn’t good?”

“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21, ESV)

Is it my attitude toward my current situation? Am I, like the Israelites, lacking trust that God will not only lead me into the wilderness—but through it—toward a beautiful place He is already lovingly preparing for me? (see Jeremiah 29:11)

Am I in the wilderness, complaining about where I am right now, while forgetting how quickly things can change?

I encourage you today to reflect on whether you’ve brought something into this year that isn’t good for you. And then I encourage you to lay it down before God in prayer—so you can experience renewed joy!

As we lay down what isn’t good in prayer, we begin to notice what is good much more clearly.

You are a miracle!