Freedom in Christ is a term used in Christianity, but we often have a vague understanding of it. Some avoid the topic altogether and we're left wondering, “What does it mean to have freedom in Christ? How do I experience it?”

Today we'll dive into this elusive bit of Christianity, because it's an important part of living abundantly.

Freedom in Christ is a term referring to the liberty we have through Christ from various things in our life. When we became a child of God, Jesus set us free from so much more than sin. We also have:

The moment we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, Satan lost his grip on us. We no longer have to live under his bondage of sin. Because of that, we're also free from the guilt and condemnation that accompanies all that. It's gone; Jesus' blood washed it all away.

Before we were saved we were judged by the Old Testament law. The long list of rules, regulations, and do's-and-don't's would be the measuring stick we would be against. And if we disobeyed one little rule, we were guilty of the whole law.

We would never be able to keep the whole law perfectly all the time and God knew that.
But now that Jesus came and made His sacrifice we are no longer judged according to the law. Now we're judged on one thing: have we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior?

This doesn't mean that people will stop voicing their opinions. But we no longer have to worry about what others think about us. Why? Because Jesus made it clear who we should please: God.

It's difficult not to care about what people think. But in the grand scheme of life it doesn't matter because we won't have to answer to them. We will answer to God for our actions and words.

So if we're doing something for God and someone starts making fun of or criticizing us, it doesn't have to bother us because the King of Kings approves and at the end of the day that's what matters.

This doesn't mean we disregard advice, especially if it's from trusted friends, family, or those who are older and/or more experienced than us. Nor should we stop trying to show the world a good testimony through our actions and words. What it does mean is that God's thoughts and guidance are more important than others.

Think of it. We now have the privilege to enter the throne room of God, into His very presence. Sin separated us from God, but now whenever we need help, a loving Friend, or rest, we can go to God.

For all believers, the Holy Spirit is our constant companion. We are able to access Him and let Him lead, convict, encourage, intercede, and help us.

This is a bit of a balancing act. On one hand, we were enslaved into a life of sin, but are now set free and have the freedom to choose our ways and actions.

However, since we're followers of Christ, we're commanded to be led by the Spirit, not our fleshly desires. "For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love." Galations 5:13, NASB.

So do we get to do what we want? Yes – as long as it's biblical, inspired by the Lord, or coming from the Holy Spirit.

How do we do this? "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law." Galations 5:16-18, NASB.

See, God doesn't force us to do anything. It's up to us to choose to do those things.

Some of this happens the moment we're saved. Others we must choose to accept. These things are available to us, but often we don't believe it's for us and these help us have an abundant life in Him.

How do we accept the gifts God offers us? How do we maintain this freedom and live as though Christ has freed us?

There will always be those who will criticize you when you take a leap of faith and follow God's direction. They may think you're crazy because sometimes God's commands, like loving your enemy, sound crazy to us humans.

When people start yammering, stop listening to them and tune into God. Ask Him to continue to guide you, to strengthen you, and to supply you with faith. Let the voice of the Lord be more important than the voice of people.

All of that is taken care of and forgiven. You're now defined by Jesus' blood. While you will still mess up, know that God forgives every time and will help you conquer your faults.

When the devil starts brining up everything you've done, remind yourself and him of God's forgiveness, mercy, and grace. Choose a few phrases to say, such as:

~ I'm forgiven by God

~ Jesus' blood has redeemed me

~ God's love, mercy, and grace are greater than my sin

Also try memorizing different Bible verses and repeating them to yourself, like Romans 8:1 or 1 John 2:12.

Before you talk to a friend, post on social media, commit to an activity, go to/plan an event, or anything else, consult the Holy Spirit. Ask Him to guide you, help you make wise decisions, and put the correct words in your mouth.

Taking a risk and doing something on faith might seem terrifying. But stepping out on faith and doing what God inspires you to do is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Start that ministry, help a neighbor, pursue your God-given dream. Don't let fear hold you back, go out on a limb for God!

Freedom in Christ is attainable and necessary for an abundant life. Why not start living in the freedom today?

How will you start experiencing that freedom?