The freedom I discovered in my mid-thirties gave me a whole new outlook on life. It changed the way I saw myself. It helped me understand who I was, but even more, it helped me see who I am in Christ.
For many years, I thought freedom meant being able to do whatever I wanted. But as I grew in my walk with God, I learned that true freedom is not just doing anything. True freedom is living free from the things that used to control me, define me, or hold me back.
The Bible reminds us, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). That means real freedom begins with Jesus. It is not found in people’s opinions, past mistakes, success, money, politics, or independence. It is found in the presence of God.
When I began to understand who I am in Christ, my perspective changed. I no longer had to live under shame, fear, or the pressure to prove myself. I could rest in the truth that I am loved, forgiven, accepted, and made new through Him.
But freedom in Christ also comes with wisdom. Paul wrote, “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything” (1 Corinthians 6:12). This reminds me that just because I can do something does not mean it is good for me. If something starts to control my heart, my thoughts, or my choices, then it is not freedom anymore.
God’s freedom does not lead us into selfishness. It leads us into love. Galatians 5:13-14 says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
That kind of freedom changes everything. It changes how I see myself, how I treat others, and how I walk through life. I am free, but I am also called to live with purpose. I am free to love. Free to serve. Free to forgive. Free to grow. Free to become more like Christ.
Today, I am thankful for the freedom Jesus gives. It is not a freedom that pulls me away from God. It is a freedom that draws me closer to Him. And the more I walk with Him, the more I understand this truth: real freedom is not found in having my own way. Real freedom is found in belonging to Christ.
Minister A Francine Green, September 2026