Finding freedom is a topic near to my heart. Freedom is something I’ve always craved in order to live life my way. But I realized my way wasn’t getting me too far. Most people long to be free. So many long to have an abundant life. What if there’s a different way to gain freedom? Join me as we discuss what it means to be free and have an abundant life this month.
What is freedom?
What is freedom? Freedom, in the simplest terms, is the state of being free instead of imprisoned or enslaved. It is the right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. Living in freedom means living without the struggles that keep us imprisoned or continually making choices which hinder our life. The goal is to move forward in different areas which keep us down.
What is abundant living? Abundant living is the call to fullness of life. “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10, NKJV). “More abundantly means to have a superabundance of a thing. ‘Abundant life’ refers to life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for mind, body, and soul.” (Oral Roberts, 1969, If You Need Healing, Do These Things) This abundant life signifies a contrast of feelings of lack, emptiness, and dissatisfaction, and motivates us to seek and change our life.
As we walk through trials which change our life, we should contemplate what questions can help us attain freedom, such as, “How is this trial shaping my life and others around me?” During times of hope and joy, we may ask more questions about abundant living, such as, “How can I live with more joy?” But when the shaping of our soul occurs, freedom becomes important because it helps us respond to what’s before us.
Freedom journey
What does freedom have to do with our journeys? Everything. The choices I’ve made inside and outside the will of God continue to affect my overall life situation.
Ultimately, my goal is improved health – spiritual, emotional and physical. I want what Stormie Omartian defined in Lord, I Want to Be Whole, “My definition of emotional health is having total peace with who you are, what you’re doing, and where you’re going, both individually and in relationship to those around you. It’s feeling totally at peace about the past, present, and future of your life. It’s knowing that you’re in line with God’s ultimate purpose for you and being fulfilled in that. When you have that kind of peace and you no longer live in emotional agony, then you are a success.” This means learning about abundant living in Christ and how to walk forward in freedom. Only through Jesus Christ can anyone find true freedom.
Why go into this discussion on freedom? As my journey continues to unfold, freedom is becoming the central focus of our life. I have found freedom in Christ fundamental to growing, living with hope and advancing in life. Freedom truly does unlock the key to an abundant life, and it’s something we’re called to as followers. My hope for readers is to understand there is freedom waiting for them. It can happen. Choose God.
