You may not like what I’m about to tell you, but it’s the truth…
Imagine a hot air balloon completely filled, supplied with a constant stream of warm air. It should take off. But it doesn’t move.
Why?
Because the four corners of the basket are tied down with ropes.
This balloon doesn’t need more hot air or more fuel.
The ropes need to be cut.
That’s how a lot of people live their lives. They keep trying to add more – more effort, more plans, more hustle – thinking that’s what will lift them higher.
But maybe the reason you’re stuck isn’t because of what’s missing. It’s because of what you refuse to release.
In a way, it’s like “addition by subtraction.”
You can’t have the life God wants for you without giving up the life you’ve got. Jesus said it like this: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
That’s not just poetic talk. It’s a call to cut ropes.
Some things must be removed.
Released.
Cut away completely so you can rise.
It could be an area of your life that you refuse to give Jesus Lordship over.
It may mean leaving someone you’re dating.
Moving away.
Quitting a job.
Removing a toxic relationship from your life.
Letting go of worry.
Giving up an addiction.
Letting go of the constant drama.
Confessing a sin.
Disciplining yourself to have a deeper prayer life.
Turning away from old habits and patterns that keep you grounded.
It’s not easy. But it’s worth it.
Abraham had to leave his home and family to follow God’s call (Genesis 12).
Peter had to step out of the boat, to “go out on a limb,” by walking on the water (Matthew 14).
Each had to let go of safety to experience God’s power.
Faith is risky. It means cutting ropes that make you feel secure. It means trusting that the God who gave you the balloon knows when it’s time to soar.
So before you ask God to add something new to your life, ask Him what He wants you to let go of.
Because the “fuel” is already there.
The Spirit is already blowing.
You just need to cut the ropes.
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