Get rid of it reprise-Thursday encouragement

I am revamping a blog post from 2016. Why, because it is still applicable today. And, because I hope to offer a bit of encouragement. At the beginning of this summer I started cleaning things out. I am tired of being surrounded by things we do not need or use anymore. I sent a bunch of clothes to our church yard sale in May. I also sent some books and the kids went through our movies and their toys. Then we took more books to 2nd and Charles (we won't talk about how we came home with more 😂). I am still in the process of getting rid of things and hopefully at the end of the weekend my house will have less books and beds. Yet, I have been wondering what else I was holding onto that I did not need.

Stress.

Depression.

Feelings of being overwhelmed.

Aggravation.

Annoyance.

Bitterness.

I could go on, but I will not because you get the point. What about you? What are you holding onto that you need to get rid of? Do you have clothes in your closet that you haven't worn in 10 years? I think you can get rid of them. Shoes you never wear? Get rid of it. Knicknacks that you are tired of dusting around, that you don not know what to do with them? Get rid of it.  Jealousy over something? Get rid of it. Anger at someone that you have not let got of? Get rid of it! Bitterness that your life has not turned out how you wanted it?? I get it!! Get rid of it!!!!!!!!!!! Did you know that holding onto these things can actually make you sick??? Did you know that their is an actual disorder for prolonged bitterness?? It's called PTED (posttraumatic embitterment disorder). People actually experience symptoms of anxiety, depression and rage from this disorder. Is that bitterness you are holding onto worth the way it is making you feel? Is that anger worth it? Are you finding joy in the clutter around you?! If not, get rid of it!!! You will feel so much better, mentally and physically.

I love this verse:

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV)

Life is so incredibly short you all. So incredibly short. Get rid of the things in your home that are not bringing you joy. Get rid of the things in your life that are bringing you down. Get rid of the people that are not healthy for you. Clean out the clutter and reclaim your life, find joy in the everyday moments, make them count, because you do not get a chance to do life over. Focus on the people and things that do matter and let go of the things that do not. You will be so much happier and healthier if you do.