With Freedom Comes Discipline
One of my favorite podcasters and former Navy SEAL, Jocko Willink, often says: “Discipline equals freedom.” He’s talking about the discipline needed to push through life’s challenges to achieve personal goals, such as financial freedom or professional success.
But here’s the truth: those worldly goals, while not inherently bad, are temporary. They can become burdens, heavy yokes that distract us from what really matters. What if we looked at it differently: With freedom comes discipline.
Freedom from the World Requires Discipline
Galatians 5:13 reminds us:
“For you were all called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
God calls us to freedom from the weight of the world, but that freedom comes with responsibility. It takes discipline to stay on the path He has set before us a path not for selfish gain, but for serving and loving others.
I’ve personally struggled with this. I’ve confused freedom with worldly desire, thinking the path was for me to get what I want, instead of using it to love, serve, and lead others. God reminded me: true freedom comes with a mission, and discipline is the tool we use to fulfill it.
Steps to Live with Freedom and Discipline
Recognize Your Freedom
You’ve been freed from the heaviness of the world. God has given you a path, you can choose to walk it or not.Embrace the Path with Boldness
Step into your calling with strength. Live a disciplined life that sets an example for others. Lead with purpose in your family, work, and church.Serve Those God Has Placed in Your Life
Your freedom is not for self-indulgence. Use it to serve men who may be weaker, lost, or far from God. Discipline keeps you focused on this mission.
Lead by Example, Serve with Purpose
Living with freedom and discipline is not easy. It requires God’s guidance, daily surrender, and intentional leadership. But when we do, we reflect faith-based leadership and influence others for His Kingdom.
So here’s the question for you:
How can you use your God-given freedom to serve the men and people God has placed in your life?
