For Freedom Christ Has Set Us Free

“So, Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.”
Galatians 5:1

As the smoke from fireworks clears and the last sparkler is tucked away, many of us are settling back into our routines after another Fourth of July celebration. The flags, parades, and brilliant bursts of light reminded us of the blessing it is to live in a free nation.

This year, my husband and I spent the evening with friends in a patriotic riverside setting. While enjoying sweet fellowship and watching the fireworks light up the sky, I couldn’t help but reflect on a deeper, more lasting freedom—one that cannot be legislated or revoked. I’m talking about the freedom we have in Jesus Christ.

As Americans, we are blessed with the right to worship openly, to read the Bible out loud, to speak the name of Jesus without fear. That is no small gift. But even greater than these national liberties is the spiritual liberty Christ gives us—a freedom from sin, shame, and spiritual death.

Galatians 5:1 says it beautifully: “So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.” This freedom is not about independence from God—it’s about complete dependence on Him, living free through grace and truth.

As I reflected on our country’s founding this week, I was reminded how clearly the Declaration of Independence acknowledges God. It mentions Him not once but four times—as the “Laws of Nature and Nature’s God,” our “Creator,” the “Supreme Judge of the world,” and the one in whose “Divine Providence” we place our trust. These references were not casual. They were foundational.

One of the most powerful statements declares that all men are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” These rights are not granted by governments but by God Himself. Our founders knew this—and they staked their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor on it.

And yet, the truest freedom doesn’t come from documents or declarations. Jesus said in John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” Real freedom is found in surrender. It’s knowing that we are no longer bound by sin or defined by our past. Through Christ, we are new creations—free to live fully, love deeply, and walk boldly in His Spirit. Grace growers may try to chain you to your past, but do not accept their shackles, grab hold of the hand of Jesus!

As I lead each Shaped by Faith class, I find myself deeply grateful for the freedom to teach faith-based fitness openly—where we can pray together, speak the Word of God aloud, and move with purpose. I don’t take this for granted. Early in my career, I discovered that many fitness facilities do not allow expressions of faith. In fact, my very first job as a fitness instructor in Kentucky didn’t permit prayer or sharing Scripture. That experience only deepened my desire to teach in places where God’s presence is welcome. Now, every stretch and every step become an act of worship—body and spirit aligned in His power for His praise.

“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” — 2 Corinthians 3:17.
This Scripture often comes to mind when I reflect on the gift of moving freely in spaces where Christ is welcome. It’s a privilege never taken lightly.

Romans 8:2 says, “Because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” That’s the kind of freedom we carry into every day, not just July 4th. It shapes how we speak, how we serve, how we live, and even how we move.

As we settle back into our post-holiday rhythms, I encourage you to hold onto the spirit of gratitude and reflection. Take a walk and thank God for your freedoms. Read a portion of Scripture out loud and let the truth of God’s Word refresh your soul. Or simply sit still and reflect on how Christ has personally set you free.

Whether you move regularly or not at all, this simple “Freedom in Christ” moment is designed to align your spirit, mind, and body in worship. You can do one, all, or simply meditate on the verses as a declaration of faith.

Here’s a simple and empowering way to bring spirit, mind, and body into alignment with a “Freedom in Christ” movement moment. Each movement is just 1 minute—and we can do anything for 1 minute, right?

1-Minute Wall Sit: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.” (Psalm 28:7)

1-Minute Plank: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid… for the Lord your God goes with you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

1-Minute Chair Squats: “He whom the Son sets free is free indeed.” (John 8:36)

1-Minute Alternating Reverse Lunges: “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

1-Minute Deep Breathing: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

Let each movement be a declaration of freedom—strengthening not just your body, but your faith and focus in Christ