"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV).
Growing up, most kids can't wait to turn 18 and move out. They want to gain freedom, true independence, and a later curfew. Call me a bit backward, but I was petrified of growing up. I didn't want bills, an adult job, and the stress of "adulting." Sadly, the more I thought I could control that, the worse my anxiety grew.
True freedom in Christ often feels likewise—upside down and inside out. Why? Because it doesn’t come from gaining control but giving it up. It doesn't look like independence, but surrender.
The world's definition of freedom is very countercultural to God's definition. Culture defines freedom as autonomy, self-expression, and doing what one wants. If it feels good, then it must be right, the world says. But God defines freedom a little differently. In John 8:31-36, He even goes as far as to say that the freedom we should all be pursuing is one of abiding, obeying, depending, and laying ourselves down:
"To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, 'If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.' They answered him, 'We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?' Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed'" (NIV).
The crazy thing about God's definition of independence, in contrast to the world's, is that it sounds like giving up. It sounds like meekness and throwing in the towel. But to be meek isn't weak; it's strength and power under control.
Think of it this way: If you're moving across the county and have the choice of carrying all your belongings on your back or using a moving truck, how many of you would choose walking? I'm certain that few to none would. Carrying everything alone leads to stress, panic, and, in this case, a back injury. The same is true of control in our lives. The more we try to control and fix the situation, the more we feel ensnared by anxiety and fear. This leads to even more stress, not freedom.
Thankfully, because of Jesus and His sacrifice given for us, true freedom and independence are found in surrender. Surrender isn't passive, but active trust. Oddly enough, Merriam-Webster defines it as a verb and a noun. I think a lot of us say we're "giving up control," but we treat surrender more like a thing than an action. To yield to the power, control, or possession of another takes immense strength. It's giving oneself over to something. And what better something to give ourselves over to than the Lord?
God invites each of us to lay down the pressure to perform or feel like we need to prove ourselves. This is true in our culture, in our jobs, our relationships, our homes, and even our hobbies. The greatest way to gain true independence and freedom is to give ourselves away. To release control (Proverbs 3:5-6), as we receive His peace (Philippians 4:6-7). This doesn't mean surrender is easy, but it's holding one hand open to receive, and laying another down to let go. It's making room for the Spirit to work through and in us, even when we're scared and don't understand.
Today, many Christians are like the young adults searching for independence. They feel like they have to earn God's approval or fix themselves before they come to Him. That's not what Galatians 5:1 tells us. Christ has already set us free from guilt, shame, striving, and anything else you might be carrying. We are free to live with the eternal joy, purpose, and boldness that only He can give. But if we're still looking for independence in something other than Christ, we will always end up enslaved. Independence says, “I can do it all.” Grace says, “It’s already done.”
Friends, if you're struggling with freedom and surrender, I encourage you to reflect on two powerful questions:
1. What area am I clinging to control?
2. What do I need to surrender to experience true peace?
I've had to ask myself these questions time and time again. Sometimes weekly or daily. But every time, Christ met me with His loving grace and mercy. I know He will do the same and more for you.
This week, take time to write down three things Christ has freed you from. Then, ask Him to help you surrender your life as you receive the independence and freedom He gives.
Let's pray:
Dear Jesus, learning to surrender is hard. When I'm tempted to cling to control, remind me that your way is better. Show me how to exchange my concerns for your freedom and make this practical in my life. I thank you, Lord. Amen!
Agape, Amber
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Mohamed Nohassi
Related Resource: Soft Words for Hard Days: A Conversation with Aundi Kolber
Some days feel heavy. Some moments leave us wondering how to keep going. If you’ve ever longed for encouragement amid life’s hardest moments, I have a special episode of The Love Offering for you. This week, I’m joined by therapist and bestselling author Aundi Kolber to discuss her latest book, Take What You Need: Soft Words for Hard Days. This beautiful collection of quotes, scriptures, prayers, and gentle exercises is designed to be a balm for your most tender places—a reminder that you are never alone on your journey to healing.
In our conversation, we explore:
✨ How to hold space for yourself and others in difficult seasons
✨ The power of compassionate words when life feels overwhelming
✨ Practical ways to embrace healing and take one more step forward
If you like what you hear, be sure to subscribe to The Love Offering on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
Originally published Thursday, 03 July 2025.
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