When God Lets Go

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. (Romans 1:28-32)

A “reprobate mind” is not confused; it is a deliberate rejection of God’s way of doing things. It’s not that these people didn't know what God’s will was; they simply didn’t like it and chose to do the opposite. Paul wrote that “they did not like to retain God in their knowledge.” The Greek word “retain” means to hold down, keep present, value, and carry. They didn’t want God’s Word in their heart, nor His truth in their laws, so He let them go. When God “gives you over,” it’s not permission to sin; it’s judgment, because God knows what results from a life apart from His ways and commands.

When God lets go of a people or a nation, it doesn’t take long before everything gets twisted—what was once evil becomes normal, what was shameful is celebrated—and the world calls it “freedom.” Look at the list Paul wrote: unrighteousness, fornication, covetousness, pride, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents. It sounds like both a newsfeed and a sitcom. 

We live in a time when most of society knows God’s standards but openly celebrates rebellion, votes for sin, and tells those who proclaim truth to “keep it to themselves.” This should awaken believers to their responsibility to speak the truth, pray for their nation, and vote according to their faith. While others are letting go, we stand firm and hold fast.

Practical Application

Who are you listening to, like shows, podcasts, politicians, and personalities? Ask the Holy Spirit if you should keep following and listening to them. Protect your heart from compromise. Don’t let culture distract you from what God has clearly defined.

2 Timothy 3:1; 2 Peter 3:3