Truly Free
“[I]f the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” John 8:36
What makes us truly free? Some believe it’s where we live, what we possess, or what we can control. Others are convinced it’s the right to choose—to govern ourselves and make our own decisions. And some say it’s the absence of restraints and restrictions. While there is an element of freedom in each of these scenarios, the truth is none of them describe what true freedom really is.
True freedom is spiritual freedom. It is rooted in knowing Jesus, the One who has made us free, calls us free, and empowers us to walk in freedom.
Spiritual Freedom: What It Is and What It’s Not
Spiritual freedom is a confident assurance of who we are in Christ: free. It’s a freedom unhindered by the constant changes in our world or the shifting circumstances of our lives. It’s a freedom not tied to what we can control, what others think, or even how we feel on any given day. Spiritual freedom is the peaceful acknowledgment that no matter what may or may not happen, we remain truly free because we are positioned in Christ.
Spiritual freedom is not the absence of constraints or restrictions. It isn’t a life without limits, challenges, or pressures. Instead, spiritual freedom is the presence of God with us, strengthening and empowering us to walk courageously through places and seasons that are anything but free.
Trusting and Believing
To walk in freedom, we must first trust what Jesus said—and just as importantly, believe His words are true about us. Jesus didn’t leave us guessing about freedom; He spoke directly, clearly, and repeatedly about why He came and what He came to do. Here are some of the things He told us about Himself and about our freedom:
“The Lord has sent me to announce freedom… and to free everyone…” (Luke 4:18 CEV)
“…[I]f you remain faithful to my teachings… you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31–32 NLT)
“[I]f the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” (John 8:36 NLT)
What This Means for Us
Freedom in Jesus is not abstract—it is deeply personal and profoundly practical.
Because of Jesus…
We are free in our identity as His beloved followers. (John 1:12)
We are free from needing the approval or acceptance of others. (Galatians 1:10)
We are free from fear, shame, and the pull of old temptations. (Romans 8:1–2)
We are free to forgive, serve, and love others generously. (Galatians 5:13)
And we are free to share the gospel and live on mission in the world. (Matthew 28:19–20)
My friends, this is not only good news, it’s the truth, the only one that sets us free. And nothing, not our feelings, our trials, our challenges, our ever‑shifting world, today’s worries, or tomorrow’s concerns, will ever change this. In Jesus, we are, right now and forever, truly free.
Pray
Father God, thank You for the freedom I have in Jesus, a freedom that is constant, consistent, and eternal. Empower me to use my freedom well and wisely, for the good of others and the honor of Your Name. Keep my heart anchored in truth so that I can walk confidently in the freedom that is mine. Amen.
Reflect
What does freedom in Jesus look like to you in your current season of life and what practical steps will you take to walk it out?”
My friends, your thoughts matter! I’d love to hear from you. Consider sharing your responses in the comment section below!