Getting Rid of Emotional Baggage

Emotional Baggage is a hindrance to one’s forward movement in life. It can be compared to a physical or mental disability of some sort. I say this because it can limit your physical movement, senses, and ability to focus and make good decisions. Emotional Baggage tends to be acquired and sustained when one lacks the discipline of self-control not to allow others and situations to control them. This composure also happens when one has failed to move forward by daily cleansing their heart of negative emotions that festered through bad experiences.​

​As a people, God called us to be fruitful and productive at all times and to attain and obtain all the blessings He set forth for us through Christ Jesus. One should not allow bad experiences and the past to hinder them from enjoying all that God has created for them. In Philippians 3:13-14 Paul sets the example and reminds us of this, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” 

In addition, knowing where one stands daily to achieve God’s best for their life is wise. By this, one should decide to conduct frequent self-examinations and detoxify themself from the things that are not beneficial to fulfilling God’s best. For example, some things that can create emotional Baggage are bad relationships. One should take an inventory of the company they keep and remove oneself from consistently dwelling among harmful and toxic people. Instead, be an example for others to emulate and follow by keeping yourself pure and fluid – always on the move of being productive. Another factor that can create emotional Baggage is failure to achieve an intended goal or desire. One should understand that life comes with many disappointments and ups and downs. It is a necessary evil for one’s growth and maturity. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” It is comforting to know that God has us, and trusting and leaning on Him makes our lives complete and lacking nothing.

Finally, emotional Baggage should immediately be disposed of when we feel burdened and strained to move forward. The pain is a sign that you are not functioning optimally, and change is needed to progress. When you pay attention to yourself, you will know that you can and should do better for yourself. When you accept your truth and release the Baggage, you will rise and begin to fulfill your purpose and live your best life.

Written By: Iodelle A. Chinnery