Freedom is Not Free

Hello Reader,

Every Wednesday on Clubhouse, I teach in a room called Love Wednesday. Recently, we’ve been in a series about embracing things. This week’s theme was: Embracing Freedom.

We often celebrate freedom, but we rarely stop to consider the cost of freedom—whether it’s spiritual, relational, business, or even national.

One day, I was talking to my brother, who works as a military contractor outside of the country. We usually catch up on WhatsApp, but during our conversation, there was suddenly a long pause. When he came back on the line, he said, “I’m sorry, the alarms went off. We had a missile warning.”

That moment shook me. It reminded me that what he does—and what every soldier and service member does—is part of the cost of my freedom. The safety and liberty we enjoy here in America are not free. They are purchased through sacrifice, service, and constant vigilance.

As I reflected on that, here are the scriptures that came to my heart about being free and being free indeed:

• “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” — John 8:36
• “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” — Galatians 5:1
• “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” — 2 Corinthians 3:17
• “Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of slavery, for by a strong hand the Lord brought you out.” — Exodus 13:3

Biblical Examples of the Cost of Freedom

• Joseph’s Journey (Genesis 37–50): His freedom was costly. He was betrayed, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and thrown into prison. Yet through his endurance, God positioned him in Egypt to save his family and ultimately preserve the nation of Israel. His suffering became the road to freedom for many.
• Jesus Christ: The ultimate cost of freedom was paid at the cross. Jesus shed His blood and gave His life so that we might be free from sin and death.

Freedom in Business

When we think about business, most of us are striving for financial freedom. But even that comes with a price.

• It may cost us time—blocking off hours to focus on building.
• It may cost us opportunities—such as skipping events or entertainment — to stay disciplined.
• It will cost us consistency and courage.

That discipline and sacrifice become the “price” we pay for the reward of financial and time freedom later.

Final Thought

Freedom is never free.

• Joseph paid with endurance.
• Jesus paid with His life.
• Soldiers and service members pay with their sacrifice.
• In business, we pay with discipline.

But here’s the good news: every cost is worth it. Because when Christ sets us free, we are free indeed—and that freedom touches every area of our lives.

So let me ask you this: What is your cost for freedom?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Hit reply and share with me.

Love,
Coach Dr. Juanita