In life, we all reach pivotal moments where we face a choice: to follow the path of obedience to God or remain in the comfort of what we know. These moments are never easy. Often, they require us to leave behind people we love—family, friends, even entire communities who, for whatever reason, have chosen not to answer God’s call.
I recently received a heartfelt message from someone grappling with the aftermath of such a decision. They wrote of the pain of separation, the burden of being misunderstood, the larger battles that arise from that misunderstanding, and the overwhelming sorrow of letting go. Their question echoed one many of us face: What do we do when we walk away from those still lost in the dark?
The answer—the best one I can offer, at least—does not lie in bitterness or regret, but in faith.
We are all called by God—every single one of us. But being called and answering that call are two very different things. Many hear God’s voice but turn away, clinging to what is familiar and ignoring the pull toward something greater. Yet there are those of us who, trembling and uncertain, say “yes” to the call. We answer not because we believe we are stronger or better, but because we long to be closer to Him.
When we say “yes” to God, something extraordinary happens. God begins to work in us, transforming us from the inside out. He breaks generational curses, shatters cycles of poverty, and rewrites our story. It is a process of becoming—a journey of shedding the old self to step into the person God has always intended us to be.
But this journey comes with a cost.
People may think it is easy—that blessings fall into our laps simply because we said “yes” to God. But the truth is far from that. What they don’t see is the cost of obedience. Saying “yes” to God means letting go of worldly distractions and enduring struggles many cannot see. It means walking a path that can feel lonely and filled with challenges. Yet, God blesses and protects us in ways beyond measure because He never breaks His promises.
Obedience often requires separation. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 6:17:
Come out from among them and be separate.
At first, these words can feel harsh, even cruel. Why should we leave behind those we love? Why can’t they come with us? The truth is, not everyone is ready. Not everyone will understand your journey. Some will mock you, others will reject you, and many will simply be unable to see the transformation God is working in your life.
This is not a reflection of your worth—or theirs. It is a reflection of choice.
Just as you chose to answer God’s call, they chose to remain where they are. Their decision, like yours, is deeply personal. Yet the pain of separation is real. You may feel guilt, anger, or even sadness for those who could not or chose not to walk this path with you. Know this: God sees your heart. He knows your love for them and your desire for their good. But He also knows that neither their journey nor their burdens are yours to carry.
Letting go does not mean you stop loving them. It does not mean you stop praying for them. It simply means you trust God to work in their lives, just as He is working in yours.
Those who slander, gossip, and judge do not see the truth of who you are—they act out of the darkness within themselves. These spirits of envy, bitterness, and malice cling to them because they have not yet chosen to release them to God. The Bible reminds us:
The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. (Exodus 14:14)
And so, we hold our peace and let God fight the battle, knowing that victory belongs to Him.
It may be helpful to remember that Jesus Himself was rejected by those closest to Him. He wept over their unbelief, but He never turned from His purpose. Yet even from the cross, as He suffered at their hands, He prayed for them, saying:
Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:34)
Christ knew His mission was to do the will of the Father and trusted the Father to do the rest.
This is the same trust we must hold as we navigate the spiritual battles surrounding our obedience. Though others may misunderstand us, reject us, or even work against us, we must remain steadfast, knowing that God’s purpose is greater than any opposition we face.
So, if you are struggling with the pain of leaving others behind, take heart. You are not alone, and you are not walking this path for nothing. God is using you as a light, as a beacon of hope for those still in the dark. Your obedience is not just for you—it is for everyone who will one day be inspired by your faith, courage, and willingness to say “yes” to God.
Keep walking. Keep trusting. Keep answering the call. Though the road may feel lonely at times, it is a path that leads to peace, purpose, and unimaginable joy. There will always be those who try to bring you down—those whose words and actions reflect not the truth of who you are, but the darkness they carry within themselves. Recognize this for what it is and respond with discernment, grace, and steadfastness in your calling.
In the end, it is not about being chosen or left behind—it is about answering the call and trusting the One who called you. If you have answered that call, walk boldly in the light and love of God, knowing that you answer to no man, but only to Him.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 1:5)
When you said “yes” to God, you accepted His calling to be of and to become that light. You also accepted His grace, His protection, and His strength within you, and the blessings that He has promised you. Continue to walk boldly, never losing sight of His promises.
Through your obedience, you reflect His love, grace, and purpose. Let your light shine as a testament to what God can accomplish through a willing heart.
Shine on.
The Twin Tree Project 