Understanding Spiritual Openness and the Dangers of a Hardened Heart
When most people think about “freedom,” they picture independence: the ability to make their own choices, go wherever they want, and live life on their own terms. We often celebrate freedom as the absence of restrictions—no one tells us what to do! But when we look at the Bible, freedom has a much deeper and richer meaning. It’s not just about doing whatever we want, but about being free in Christ. Let’s explore what true biblical freedom looks like, how it compares to common ideas about independence, and why spiritual openness is so important.
Freedom in Christ: More Than Independence
Biblical freedom isn’t just about being able to do whatever you please. In fact, it’s about being free from the things that truly hold us back—sin, guilt, shame, and spiritual blindness. When the Bible talks about freedom, it’s describing a life where we are released from the grip of sin and empowered to live in a way that pleases God. Jesus said, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” This freedom is not about breaking rules or escaping responsibility—it’s about finding real life, joy, and purpose.
Freedom from Sin, Not Just Rules
Being free in Christ means that we are no longer slaves to sin. Sin is more than just bad behavior; it’s a force that keeps us stuck, unable to live the life God intended for us. When Jesus died and rose again, He broke the power of sin for everyone who believes in Him. This isn’t just a ticket to heaven—it’s a new way to live right now. We are free to say “no” to things that hurt us and “yes” to things that bring us closer to God.
The Purpose of Freedom: Loving and Serving Others
Biblical freedom always has a purpose. It’s not just for us to enjoy, but for us to use to help others. The Bible teaches that our freedom is meant to lead us to love and serve the people around us. Instead of living only for ourselves, we are called to use our freedom to care for others, build relationships, and make a positive difference. True freedom is found when we give ourselves away for the sake of others, just as Jesus did.
The Role of the Holy Spirit: Daily Transformation
None of this is possible on our own. The Holy Spirit—the presence of God in our lives—helps us to live out this freedom daily. He works in our hearts, changing us from the inside out, guiding us toward what’s good and away from what’s harmful. The Spirit helps us recognize areas where we need to grow, softens our hearts, and gives us power to follow Jesus. This is not a one-time event, but a journey of becoming more like Christ each day.
Freedom Rooted in Truth: The Power of the Gospel
Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The truth of the Gospel—that God loves us, forgives us, and invites us into a relationship with Him—has the power to break every chain. When we believe the truth about who God is and who we are in Him, we are freed from lies, fear, and shame. Living in the light of God’s truth is the foundation of real freedom.
Walking in Obedience: Choosing God’s Way
Obedience might sound like the opposite of freedom, but in the Bible, following God’s way is how we experience true freedom. When we obey God, we trust Him to lead us toward what is best. His commands aren’t meant to restrict us, but to protect us and guide us into a life that is truly fulfilling. Choosing God’s way means walking in love, honesty, and kindness, and it leads us into deeper freedom.
The Danger of a Hardened Heart: Spiritual Blindness and Alienation
One of the biggest obstacles to true freedom is a hardened heart. This happens when we ignore God’s voice, resist His guidance, or close ourselves off to spiritual truth. A hardened heart leads to spiritual blindness—we can’t see what God is doing, and we miss out on His best for us. Over time, this can make us feel isolated, hopeless, and unable to connect with God or others. Staying spiritually open is essential for experiencing freedom.
Despair and Redemption: From Blindness to Hope
The good news is that God never gives up on us. Even when we feel stuck or spiritually blind, He offers hope and redemption. By opening our hearts to Him, admitting our need, and asking for His help, we can move from despair to hope. God softens our hearts, forgives our sins, and restores our freedom. No matter how far we’ve wandered, He welcomes us back with open arms.
Conclusion: Freedom as a Divine Gift and the Importance of Spiritual Openness
True biblical freedom is a gift from God, not something we earn or achieve on our own. It’s found in Christ, lived out by the power of the Holy Spirit, rooted in truth, and expressed in loving and serving others. The key to experiencing this freedom is spiritual openness—being willing to listen, learn, and let God change us. Don’t settle for the world’s version of independence; embrace the freedom that God offers, and discover a life that’s full, meaningful, and truly free.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 