How many times have you heard someone say to “let go and let God”? This popular quote usually comes up when we are worrying or being anxious about something. You would think it’s in the Bible, but not only is it not in the Bible, I couldn’t even find its origin.
“Let Go and Let God.” – Unknown Origin
Even though today’s quote is NOT found in the Bible, it IS based upon Biblical principles. We are to walk by faith and not by sight, and that is the crux of letting go and letting God – we let go of what we can see and know, and let God direct our paths trusting that all things work together for our good.
Bible Verses on Letting Go
Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. – 1 Peter 5:7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. – Philippians 4:6 NKJV
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. – John 14:1 NKJV
Bible Verses on Letting God
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. – Matthew 6:33 NKJV
Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. – Psalm 37:5
In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. – Proverbs 3:6 NKJV
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. – Hebrews 10:23 NKJV
The affirmation, “Let Go and Let God,” in this specific terminology, originated in 12-Step recovery programs, the first, of course being Alcoholics Anonymous. A.A. was founded in 1935. While I was unable to find the name of an individual specifically credited with beginning use of this affirmation in the spiritual application of 12-step recovery, because the affirmation has been around as long as the program, it is very likely credited to “Bill.”