THERE IS FREEDOM!!

 

June 19, 2025

2 Corinthians 3:17–18

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”



I believe that Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 3 take us into the core of the Spirit’s transforming work. When he writes, “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom,” he is pointing us to the very heart of spiritual renewal.

In the Old Testament, there is a story where Moses veiled his face after encountering God’s glory because the people couldn’t bear its radiance. Paul compares that with believers who now behold God’s glory with “unveiled faces”, not in fear, but in freedom. Why? Because the veil has been lifted through Christ. And the one who enables us to see and reflect that glory is God's own Spirit.

In our culture living in freedom carries the meaning of “to do as we please”, but the freedom in our verses today has a different meaning. Freedom as Paul speaks of it is the liberty to become what we were always meant to be: image-bearers of Christ, shaped from “glory to glory.”

I believe we know that spiritual transformation isn’t self-improvement. It’s not just better habits or a cleaner life. Spiritual transformation is the Spirit-led, grace-fueled process of becoming more like Jesus in character, compassion, and courage. You see, the Holy Spirit works in the depths of our hearts, not by force but by a gentle presence, revealing truth, stirring conviction, healing wounds, and enabling change.

Freedom can be frightening, can’t it? Sometimes, we grow comfortable with our shackles and chains, old sins, shame, unforgiveness, or fear. And yet, don’t miss this, the Spirit gently but continually says, “You are not a slave. You are free. For “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” “Come let us walk together.”

What area of your life still feels bound? Is it fear of failure? A habitual sin? A lingering bitterness? An inability to embrace your identity as a child of God? Whatever it may be, it is holding you back, I want to invite you to honestly take that area, that place of struggle to God in prayer. Don’t hide it, name it. Then, surrender that area, asking the Spirit to begin His work of freedom step by step in you.

Let’s Pray


God, I come with open hands and an open heart to your Spirit of freedom. Free me from the chains that still bind me, whether fear, guilt, bitterness, low self worth, or pride. Help me to live not in the shadows of the past, but in the light of Your transforming presence. Mold me, and shape me into the image of Christ, daily. Amen.