Letting go isn’t always easy. Whether it’s releasing past hurts, broken relationships, missed opportunities, or personal failures, moving forward can feel overwhelming. Yet in those moments, the Bible reminds us that God meets us right where we are. His Word offers peace for our pain, clarity for our confusion, and courage to step into something new.
The Bible is full of verses that guide us through transitions, helping us release what weighs us down so we can move forward in faith. If you’re wrestling with how to move on or what it means to let go, these verses are for you.
Let’s explore 35 powerful Bible verses about moving on and letting go.
1. Isaiah 43:18-19
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
Explanation:
God encourages us to stop clinging to the past and to make room for the new blessings He is bringing into our lives.
2. Philippians 3:13-14
But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal…
Explanation:
Paul teaches that spiritual growth comes when we let go of past mistakes and focus on our forward journey with Christ.
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
Explanation:
In Christ, we are made new. Our old life, with its baggage, no longer defines us.
4. Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Explanation:
Jesus invites us to lay down our emotional and spiritual burdens so we can find true rest in Him.
5. Ecclesiastes 3:1
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.
Explanation:
This verse reminds us that moving on is a natural part of life. Seasons change, and it’s okay to move with them.
6. Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…
Explanation:
Letting go requires trust. When we rely on God, He directs our path even when we can’t see what’s next.
7. Lamentations 3:22-23
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail…
Explanation:
Every day is a new opportunity for healing and hope. God’s mercy is fresh each morning.
8. Psalm 55:22
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you…
Explanation:
God invites us to hand over our burdens so He can carry us through.
9. 1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Explanation:
Whatever you’re holding on to—grief, fear, shame—God wants you to give it to Him because He loves you.
10. Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…
Explanation:
Even painful experiences can be used by God to bring good into our lives when we trust Him.
11. Hebrews 12:1
…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles…
Explanation:
To run life’s race well, we need to let go of whatever is slowing us down.
12. John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you…
Explanation:
Letting go often brings anxiety. Jesus offers peace in place of fear and turmoil.
13. Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God…
Explanation:
God’s presence gives us the strength to release the past and walk into a new future.
14. Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive one another…
Explanation:
Forgiveness is a key part of moving on. It frees not only the other person, but your own heart as well.
15. Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Explanation:
Even when letting go hurts, God draws near to comfort us.
16. Revelation 21:4
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…’
Explanation:
This verse offers a vision of a future without pain—a promise that healing is on the horizon.
17. Genesis 19:26
But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.
Explanation:
Looking back can sometimes cost us the future. This story is a strong reminder to move forward.
18. Ephesians 4:31-32
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… Be kind and compassionate…
Explanation:
To move on, we must let go of harmful emotions and replace them with kindness and grace.
19. Romans 12:19
Do not take revenge…for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
Explanation:
Letting go includes releasing the need for revenge and trusting God with justice.
20. Proverbs 4:25-27
Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.
Explanation:
Focus on what’s ahead rather than what’s behind. Forward focus leads to forward motion.
21. Luke 9:62
No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.
Explanation:
Following Christ requires full commitment — and that means not looking back.
22. Psalm 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Explanation:
God doesn’t just want you to move on—He wants to heal you in the process.
23. James 1:12
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial…
Explanation:
Moving forward after hardship brings spiritual blessing and deeper faith.
24. Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…
Explanation:
We are called to live in freedom, not bound by the past.
25. Isaiah 40:31
…those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles…
Explanation:
God renews us with strength when we choose to let go and place our hope in Him.
26. Job 11:13-16
Yet if you devote your heart to him…You will surely forget your trouble…
Explanation:
Turning to God helps us forget former pain and start fresh.
27. 2 Chronicles 20:15
…Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.
Explanation:
Letting go often means giving our battles over to God.
28. Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord…
Explanation:
God has a future of hope planned for us, even when the past feels overwhelming.
29. Psalm 30:5
…weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
Explanation:
Pain doesn’t last forever. Joy will come again if you keep moving forward.
30. Matthew 6:14-15
For if you forgive other people…your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Explanation:
Forgiveness is essential for emotional freedom and spiritual healing.
31. John 8:36
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
Explanation:
Jesus offers true freedom — not just from sin, but from every chain of the past.
32. 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us…
Explanation:
God forgives us completely, so we can let go of guilt and shame.
33. Micah 7:19
You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot…
Explanation:
God doesn’t hold onto our sins — and neither should we.
34. Proverbs 16:9
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.
Explanation:
Letting go of control allows God to guide our lives more fully.
35. 2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
Explanation:
God gives us the strength to move forward boldly, not fearfully.
Conclusion
Moving on and letting go is not a sign of weakness — it’s a step of faith. The Bible is clear that God doesn’t want us trapped by our past. He wants to lead us into healing, renewal, and freedom. These verses remind us that while the journey may be hard, we’re never alone. God walks with us, strengthens us, and gives us new beginnings.
Which of these Bible verses about moving on and letting go speaks most to your heart?
We’d love to hear your story. Share your thoughts, favorite verses, or personal journey in the comments below. Let’s encourage one another as we let go and press forward in faith.