As Christians, we’ve been called into a life of freedom, but many people still feel chained.
Maybe it’s a habit you can’t seem to break, a past hurt that keeps resurfacing, or a cycle of negative thoughts that just won’t quit.
Some wrestle with impure habits—like pornography or unhealthy relationships—that leave them feeling guilty and stuck. Others battle bitterness, anxiety, or old thought patterns that seem to have a life of their own. But here’s the question we need to ask: Is this the life Jesus died for us to live?
The answer is a resounding NO.
In the Old Testament, people lived under the heavy weight of the law. Sin demanded constant sacrifices—rams, goats, and other offerings—but none of these could truly set them free. Then Jesus came. His blood did what no animal sacrifice could ever do: it broke the chains of sin and gave us real, lasting freedom.
But here’s the thing: freedom is something we have to stand in.
Think about the Israelites. They were freed from slavery in Egypt, but their journey to the Promised Land was anything but smooth. One day they were praising God, and the next they were complaining or worshiping idols. Their lack of faith and refusal to stand firm cost them dearly. That entire generation—except for Joshua and Caleb—died in the wilderness. They never entered the land God had promised them.
We don’t want to be like that, do we?
Why Do Some People Still Struggle to Stand?
Here are a few reasons why some still struggle:
Lack of Self-Denial
Jesus said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). Denying ourselves means saying no to our fleshly desires and yes to God’s will. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary and rewarding. God’s grace is sufficient.Love of the World
The Bible warns us, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15). When we value the things of this world more than God, we compromise. And compromise leads to bondage.Lack of Spiritual Growth
Just like a baby needs milk to grow, we need God’s Word to grow spiritually. “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2). If we’re not spending time in prayer, studying the Bible, or fellowshipping with other believers, we’re not growing. And if we’re not growing, we’re not standing.Lack of Spiritual Discipline
Some don’t take their walk with God seriously. They let little sins slide, make excuses for bad habits, and hang onto things—or people—that pull them away from God. But “little foxes spoil the vines” (Song of Solomon 2:15). We need to be intentional about removing anything that makes us stumble.Satanic Manipulations
The enemy is always looking for a way back in. Jesus said, “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out” (Matthew 12:43-44). If we don’t fill our lives with God’s presence, the enemy will find a way to return.
What Does It Mean to Stand in Freedom?
Galatians 5:1 says, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Standing firm isn’t a passive thing—it’s an active choice. It’s about positioning yourself in the freedom Christ has given you and refusing to be moved by temptation, struggles, or the enemy’s schemes.
So, how do we do it? Let’s break it down using the word STAND:
S – Surrender to God Daily
Freedom starts with surrender. Every day, lay your desires, plans, and struggles at Jesus’ feet. Romans 12:1 says, “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Surrender means saying, “Lord, I can’t do this alone. I need You.”
T – Tame the Flesh
Taming the flesh means putting sinful desires to death. Colossians 3:5 says, “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” With prayer and the Holy Spirit’s help, it’s possible.
A – Align with God’s Purpose
You were created for a purpose. Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” When you align your life with God’s purpose, resisting sin becomes easier.
N – Nurture Your Faith
Faith needs to be fed. Surround yourself with godly community, study the Bible, and pray consistently. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us not to neglect gathering together. Fellowship keeps us accountable and encouraged.
D – Depend on the Holy Spirit
Freedom isn’t about willpower—it’s about relying on the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 says, “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Ask the Holy Spirit daily for guidance, strength, and conviction.
Living Out Continuous Freedom
Freedom in Christ is a gift, but standing firm in it takes faith-work. When you surrender to God, tame the flesh, align with His purpose, nurture your faith, and depend on the Holy Spirit, you’ll walk in the abundant life Jesus promised (John 10:10).
Don’t settle for bondage when Jesus has already set you free. You are spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart. Stand firm in that truth and live a life that reflects His glory!
What steps will you take today to stand firm in your freedom? Write them down, pray over them, and ask God for the strength to walk in victory.
Remain Radiant and free, dear friend!
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