Freedom as a Daily Practice: 3 Ways to Live It Out This Summer
As the echoes of July 4th fireworks fade away and the patriotic bunting comes down, many of us return to our regular routines without much thought about what freedom truly means in our daily lives. This year, let's take a moment to consider freedom not just as a national celebration but as a personal responsibility and spiritual gift that shapes how we live every day.
Freedom, at its core, begins with understanding its source. While the Declaration of Independence proclaimed that "all men are created equal" and are "endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights," this revolutionary concept wasn't merely political—it was deeply spiritual. The biblical foundation reminds us that we are created in God's image (Genesis 1:27) and "where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Corinthians 3:17). This profound truth suggests that authentic freedom reaches far beyond political rights to touch our souls, offering liberation from fear, shame, comparison, addiction, and whatever else might be holding us back from living purposefully.
The disconnect between external circumstances and internal freedom is striking. Recent statistics reveal that while about 70% of Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction politically, over 80% still prioritize faith and family above all else. This suggests a national yearning for something deeper than political solutions—a hunger for genuine freedom that addresses the weight we carry within. The question becomes personal: Where do you feel stuck? In your thoughts, schedule, relationships, or sense of purpose? True freedom invites us to identify these areas and bring them into God's transforming light.
Scripture paints a countercultural picture of freedom that differs dramatically from common American perceptions. Galatians 5:13 reminds us that we "were called to be free," but with an important qualification—we shouldn't "use [our] freedom to indulge the flesh." Instead, we're called to "serve one another humbly in love." This challenges the popular notion that freedom means doing whatever we want. Authentic freedom, paradoxically, flourishes when we use it to lift others up rather than serve ourselves. This servant-hearted approach to freedom becomes increasingly important in our divided culture, where a LifeWay study found that 62% of Christians believe the US is more divided than ever, yet only 37% feel equipped to engage culture wisely.
How do we bridge this gap and live as truly free people in a fractured world? Three simple practices can guide us: First, listen well, especially to those with whom we disagree. Cultivating curiosity toward different perspectives doesn't require agreement but demonstrates the respect that reflects Christ. Second, pray intentionally for leaders—even those who frustrate us—recognizing the weight of responsibility they carry. Third, serve others in small, tangible ways that demonstrate love to neighbors, coworkers, or strangers. These practices don't require a platform or special training—just a willing heart.
As summer unfolds, we have a perfect opportunity to steward our freedom more intentionally. Start mornings with gratitude, listing three things you're thankful for to shift your perspective. Prioritize time for rest, reading Scripture, or simply being still, refusing to let busyness steal your peace. Practice selflessness by paying for someone's coffee, volunteering in your community, or sending an encouraging text. These small actions align with Ephesians 5:15-16, which urges us to "be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity."
The ultimate challenge is twofold: First, recognize where God has already set you free—perhaps from addiction, temptation, or fear—and consider how you might use that freedom to help someone else. Second, identify areas where you still need God's liberating work, bringing them into the light rather than hiding them in darkness. Freedom grows when we live boldly—sharing our stories, inviting others to church, or extending forgiveness to those who don't deserve it. These acts of courage don't stem from obligation but flow naturally from hearts that have experienced true freedom in Christ.
Listen to the full episode on Holly’s Highlights podcast season 6 episode 18 available wherever you listen to podcasts.