The Lord has anointed . . . me . . . to grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn . . . to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning. —Isaiah 61:1,3

This passage specifically says God wants to give consolation and joy—beauty instead of ashes—for those who mourn. But in order for Him to do that you must let go of the ashes of your past.

Some people have their loved ones cremated and keep their ashes in a box or urn. Eventually they may carry the ashes to a meaningful spot and throw them to the wind. It’s a way of letting them go—permanently.

That is what God wants you to do if you have been hurt in the past and are hanging on to the ashes. If you want real joy, let go of those ashes, allowing the wind of the Holy Spirit to blow them out of your life . . . permanently!