Freedom is something deeply longed for by every human being. Nations around the world celebrate their independence days with great enthusiasm because independence symbolizes liberation from colonization, oppression, and bondage. However, as believers, we learn that there is one kind of freedom far more important than merely being free physically or politically: freedom in Christ.
The Bible declares that Christ has set us free from the power of sin. Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” This means true freedom does not mean living as we please, but rather living led by the Holy Spirit and aligned with God’s will.
In a world increasingly valuing personal freedom, it is easy for believers to be swept into the mindset that being “free” means not having to submit to anyone, including God. Yet, this is where modern humanity’s great error lies. We were not created to be “kings over ourselves,” but servants obedient to our Creator. Romans 6:22 affirms, “But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life.”
Submitting to God does not cancel our freedom. On the contrary, it is the expression of true freedom: free from the chains of sin to live according to His design. Just as a fish is free to swim in water but dies if “free” outside of water, so we are only truly free when living in obedience to God.
Freedom in Christ does not mean we may live recklessly. Precisely because we have been bought at a high price, (1 Corinthians 6:20), we are empowered to live in holiness and love. A life submitted to God is not a life of oppression but one full of joy because it walks in His perfect will.
Are we using that freedom correctly? Or are we misusing the freedom God has given us to follow our own desires?
