Flag on the Play, Part 1: Holding // Eric Robertson

Are you holding onto the past? In this message, Pastor Eric Robertson shares about the penalty called "Holding". Spiritual holding happens when we cling to the past in ways that block our growth in the present.

Israel struggled with this during their time in the wilderness. And that's often when we struggle with it too—during seasons of transition or uncertainty: a new job, role, baby, diagnosis—anything that shakes us. In those moments, we often crave what used to be.

Read Numbers 11:1–35

Israel, on their way to the Promised Land, longed for their past—even their slavery. When we hold onto the past, we risk never arriving at the future God has for us.

Naming the Season

To follow God forward, you have to name the season you're in. Israel didn't realize their wilderness was temporary.

God gave them manna—which means "What is it?" They couldn't name it, and that confusion stalled their progress. You can't recognize a new season until you understand the one you're in.

God's plan was milk and honey—but they had to pass through the manna first.

If you hold onto where you were, you risk staying where you are.

Observations: What Are You Holding Onto?

1. Old Sins
    Israel longed for the "good food" of Egypt, forgetting it came with chains.
    Old sins might feel comforting in hard times, but they are distorted memories.
    Desire without discernment leads to destruction.
2. Old Comforts
    Numbers 11:4 uses the phrase hit'avu ta'avah—literally "they craved a craving."
    Their disordered desires led to Kibroth Hattavah—"the grave of craving."
    Seeking comfort over calling can keep us in the wilderness longer.
    James 1:15 warns us that craving gives birth to sin, which leads to death.
3. Old Seasons
    Even good seasons must end for growth.
    Like a plant that must be repotted, growth requires discomfort.
    John 15:1-2 reminds us God prunes us to make us more fruitful.
    Holding onto the old stunts our spiritual development.

Attitude, Action, and Atmosphere

• Attitude: Manna was provision, not punishment. Don't curse the very thing carrying you forward.
• Action: Israel complained instead of moving. Our actions shape our outcomes.
• Atmosphere: The rabble influenced Israel. Voices around you matter—surround yourself with faith, not fear.

Conclusion

Holding on to old sins, comforts, or seasons may mean they're holding on to you.

But God's plan was never the grave of craving. He was leading them to Hazeroth—a place of structure.

So ask yourself:

Are you holding on to old sins, old comforts, or an old season?

Let go—and let God lead you forward.