In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, we often focus on nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. But there is one fundamental aspect to being healthy that is often overlooked – the concept of freedom. Freedom isn’t just about external choices; it’s also about internal liberation, and it plays a pivotal role in our health journey. On our courses and retreats and in our online community we are all about whole health and having freedom. So, in this video and in the blog below I dive deeper into what true freedom means in this context.  

Defining Freedom

The official definition of freedom is “the condition or right of being able or allowed to do, say, think whatever you want to without being controlled or limited.” It’s a powerful concept, but for Christians, freedom holds a unique significance. In various passages in the Bible, we are encouraged to live in freedom, emphasizing the importance of being free:

• 1 Peter 2:16 “Live as free men”.
• Galatians 5:13-14 “You my brothers are called to be free.”
• Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.”

The Garden of Eden: A Paradigm of Freedom

To understand the essence of freedom, we can look back to the Garden of Eden. At its core, what made it a free place was the presence of the tree of knowledge. Without the freedom to reject God, true choice and true freedom couldn’t exist. God designed us to be responsible, respectful, and self-controlled beings. However, He also knew that as humans, we would make mistakes. So, God offered us the freedom to choose Him, even if it meant making mistakes along the way.

Mistakes and Bondage

It’s crucial to realise that mistakes themselves are not the enemy; it’s the bondage to those mistakes that limits our freedom. Living in constant fear of making a mistake or straying from God’s will is not freedom; it’s fear. God doesn’t seek blind obedience; He seeks love. Perfect love casts out all fear, and God, being the embodiment of love, desires a relationship with our hearts, not rigid obedience.

The Role of God’s Spirit

2 Corinthians 3:17, tells us, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” As Christians, we believe that God’s Spirit resides within us. This means we no longer need external control; we have God living inside us, guiding us in our choices. So why do we sometimes listen to God’s voice in certain situations but not in others?

Choosing God’s Will

John 8:36 says, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” True freedom comes from within, from following God’s will willingly. When it comes to your health, and your relationship with food, it can’t be imposed from outside; it must come from within, guided by God’s love. True freedom must stem from our connection with God; otherwise, it becomes a form of dictatorship or mere obligation. We often hear phrases like “should” and “ought to,” which are not indicative of real freedom.

Embracing Freedom in Christ

Galatians 5:1 reminds us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm and do not let yourself be burdened by a yoke of slavery.” The key lies in avoiding any form of bondage or control, whether it’s imposed by others, their opinions, external pressures, or self-inflicted expectations. God desires to liberate us from such entanglements. Psalm 119 says, “I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.” These precepts, acting as boundaries and guidelines, lead us to genuine freedom. Similarly, Romans 6:22 highlights that being set free from sin and becoming servants of God leads to holiness and eternal life.

Freedom in Serving God

Though the idea of being a servant to God may sound daunting to non-Christians, we understand that He is the greatest master. We are called to live as free individuals, but this freedom should never be misused to cover up wrongdoing, as that leads to bondage. Instead, we should see ourselves as servants of God, recognising that He knows what’s best for us and is the ultimate master. True freedom is found in living as slaves and servants of God, inviting Him into our hearts.

Freedom and Peace

Freedom and peace are intricately connected. Peace is a fruit of the kingdom of God. By living as God desires, we find peace in our choices. If you lack peace in some decisions, it’s a sign that you might not be truly free. Your choices should align with God’s plan for your life, not dictated by external pressures or addictions.

Steps to Freedom

Recognising areas in which you may not be truly free is the first step toward liberation. Acknowledging when something else is in control, whether it’s external influences, cravings, addictions, or emotions, is vital. Change begins with your thoughts and beliefs. Understand that change is possible, and God desires to grant you both peace and freedom.

In conclusion, let’s move forward on our health journey with a deeper understanding of freedom. Remember that making mistakes is part of the process, but God’s love and grace are ever-present. Embrace the freedom God offers, and let Him guide you toward a healthier, happier life.

If you are looking for some extra support on your journey to healthier eating habits, take a look at our Healthy Whole and Free Course – follow this link to find out more. I’d love to help you break free in this area!