Are you getting ready to leave something? There are many seasons in life and there is “a time to plant, and a time to uproot what is planted” (Ecclesiastes 3:2b). Maybe you sense it is about time to move on to a new job or a new city or a new relationship or a new church.

As you leave, remember that there are different ways you can do it. There is a right way and a wrong way to leave. If you’re smart you’ll take the right turn only because it will lead to the smoothest road ahead.

The right way means leaving with honesty and integrity. For instance, if you are getting ready to leave a church, make sure that all relationships are in order. Don’t leave with hard feelings, especially without expressing them honestly and lovingly. If you do you’re going to be dragging baggage with you which will only get heavier as time goes by. Confronting may be difficult but it is the right thing to do.

When you leave, bless what is left behind. Maybe you are leaving an awful job with an awful boss but don’t fall into the trap of badmouthing them. Instead, pray a blessing over your company, boss and co-workers. Ask God to prosper them and pray they will come into the fullness of the revelation of God’s grace.

Remember “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men” (Romans 12:18). When you obey that command, you can be assured you are leaving the right way.