Where the Spirit Is, Freedom Reigns

07/04/2025

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
- 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV)

Freedom. It’s a word we hear often, especially around this time of year when our country celebrates its independence. But the freedom Paul writes about in this verse goes far deeper than national liberty or personal autonomy. It’s a spiritual freedom, one that only the Holy Spirit can provide.

When Paul penned this letter to the church in Corinth, he was drawing a powerful contrast between the Old Covenant, which brought condemnation through the law, and the New Covenant, which brings life through the Spirit. In the Old Testament, Moses wore a veil to shield the Israelites from the glory of God that radiated from his face after being in God’s presence. But now, because of Jesus, that veil is removed. We can approach God openly, not with fear, but with boldness and confidence, because His Spirit dwells within us.

Have you ever felt bound—not physically, but emotionally or spiritually? Maybe by guilt, shame, fear, or addiction? Perhaps like the chains were invisible, but heavy nonetheless? One of the greatest lies the enemy whispers is that we’ll always be stuck. That our past defines us. That we’ll never be free.

But Paul tells us otherwise. When the Spirit of the Lord enters our lives, He doesn’t just improve us, He liberates us. He breaks chains. He lifts burdens. He renews minds. He rewrites stories.

I Have a friend who does prison ministry and he shared a story about a young man named Andre. He was serving time for decisions that had cost him years of his life. But somewhere in the middle of that confinement, Andre encountered Jesus. His cell didn’t open, but his heart did. He began reading the Word, praying daily, and leading Bible studies for fellow inmates. He went on and said, “The smile on his face the day he told me, “I’ve never felt more free than I do now,” still brings tears to my eyes.” That’s the kind of freedom Paul is talking about. A freedom that has nothing to do with circumstances and everything to do with the presence of the Spirit.

Here are some things you can do to help you on your journey.

Take five minutes today to invite the Holy Spirit into your heart. Ask Him to reveal any areas where you’re not living in freedom.

Journal or pray about a specific area in your life where you feel bound. Ask the Spirit to bring healing and liberty.

Speak life into someone else today who might feel stuck. Remind them of this truth: Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

My challenge for you is this:
Choose one area in your life where you’ve felt stuck, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Declare this verse over that area, and walk today in the boldness of someone who’s been set free. Don’t wait until you “feel” free, live like it’s already true. Because in Christ, it is.

Holy Spirit, I welcome You into every part of my life. Thank You for the freedom You bring, not just from sin, but from fear, shame, and anything that holds me back. Help me to live each day aware of Your presence and confident in Your power. Remove any veil I’ve placed between us. I choose today to walk in the freedom You have given. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Pastor Jeff

#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign