Hey everyone, my name is Austin and welcome back
to another episode of the Unfiltering Faith Podcast.
If you're just tuning in for the first time,
I'm so glad you're here. And if you've been here
before, welcome back. Today we will answer the
question, is life without God really free or
is it just an illusion of freedom? So if you'd
like to take notes, I encourage it. And while
you're at it, have your Bibles out because we
will be looking through several passages of scripture
that will help us with our discussion today.
When we think of freedom we often picture a life
without restrictions the ability to do whatever
we want whenever we want But is that real freedom
or is that just another form of bondage? Today
we'll dive into the theological perspective of
freedom and why life without God is May not be
as free as it seems the Bible presents a different
definition of freedom than what society often
promotes in John 8 32 Jesus says then you will
know the truth and the truth will set you free
But free from what? In verse 34, it continues,
This is a radical idea. It suggests that when
we live apart from God, we aren't truly free.
We are enslaved to something else. Whether it's
our desires, societal pressures, or personal
ambitions, we become bound to what we think sets
us free. Think about it this way. If someone
is addicted to something, whether it be substances,
power, approval, or material wealth, they often
feel like they are in control at first. But over
time, that thing begins to control them. They
become enslaved to their passions and habits.
What starts as a pursuit of personal freedom
ends up becoming a prison. Now if I were to ask
you, do you feel overwhelmed by choices? How
many of you would raise your hand? I can't see
you, but I can feel the collective nodding. We
live in a time when choices are abundant. From
what to wear in the morning to what streaming
services to choose from, we are bombarded with
decisions every single day. But here's the catch.
More choices don't always lead to more correct
answers. Think about that for a moment. Just
because we're given more options doesn't equate
to the number of correct answers. It's just,
Lahetsan's our probability of getting something
right. In fact, they can lead to something called
decision fatigue. So, Lahetsan packed this concept
together. In 2000, a study was conducted by psychologists.
They set up a jam testing booth with two different
setups, one with six varieties of jam and another
with 24 varieties. Offering more jam choices
would lead to more sales, right? Well, surprisingly,
when they offered the smaller selection of six
jams, the 30 % of the tasters went on to purchase
a jar. However, when facing with a larger selection
of 24, Only 3 % made a purchase. This is a classic
example of choice overload, where sheer number
of options can paralyze us instead of empowering
us. But why does this happen? Let's delve into
the psychology behind it. Choice overload can
lead to a decision fatigue, a state of mental
exhaustion resulting from making too many decisions.
When faced with too many options, our brain starts
to tire out. It becomes harder to weigh the pros
and cons, and as a result, we can feel anxious
or even regretful about our choices. Imagine
standing in front of a wall of cereal boxes in
your local grocery store. You've got organic,
gluten -free, low sugar, high fiber, every conceivable
option. The more choices you have, the more pressure
you feel to make the right choice. It's exhausting.
And it doesn't stop at groceries. Think about
the last time you were trying to choose a movie
to watch. You scroll through your streaming services
and what happens? You spend more time scrolling
through than actually watching. You might even
give up altogether, feeling frustrated and opting
to do something else instead. This phenomenon
is not just limited to consumer choices. Research
by psychologist Barry Schwartz, author of The
Paradox of Choice, reveals that when we have
too many options, we often experience higher
dissatisfaction. Schwartz argues that the abundance
of choice can make us less content with our decisions.
He might illuminate on what we could have chosen
instead, which can lead to regret or anxiety.
So what can we do about it? How do we navigate
this overwhelming sea of choices without sinking
into decision fatigue? Well, let's explore some
practical strategies. First and foremost, simplification
is key. When faced with a decision, try to narrow
down your options. For instance, limit yourself
to just three choices. If you're picking a restaurant,
this creates a manageable decision -making process
and allows you to focus without being overwhelmed.
Next. Consider the power of timelines. Heading
a specific timeline to make a decision reduces
the chances of overthinking. For example, give
yourself 10 minutes to choose a movie or 15 minutes
to decide what to wear. This can help you make
choices more swiftly and confidently. Another
valuable strategy is to prioritize your decisions.
Not all choices carry the same weight. Focus
your mental energy on the decisions that truly
matter. Can career, relationships, or health
matter? For smaller everyday decisions, allow
yourself the freedom to choose quickly and move
on. Let's not forget the importance of embracing
your imperfection. Sometimes we get so caught
up in making the perfect choice that we forget
that every decision comes with its pros and cons.
Remind yourself that it's okay to make mistakes
and that no option is set in stone. The beauty
of life is in the journey, not the destination.
Lastly, practice mindfulness. When faced with
a decision, take a moment to breathe and ground
yourself. Ask yourself what truly matters to
you in this situation. Often tuning into the
values can help clarify your choices and alleviate
the anxiety associated with decision making.
As we reflect on the nature of choice, let's
remember that having options is a luxury that
many people worldwide don't have. However, it's
crucial to strike a balance. Too many choices
can create confusion and frustration, while fewer
choices can lead to greater satisfaction and
peace of mind. In today's world, freedom is often
defined as personal independence, the ability
to make rules and choose our own path. But without
God as an anchor, morality becomes subjective.
Right and wrong shifts, but based on personal
preference and cultural trends, this kind of
freedom leads to chaos. Think about it. If there's
no higher mahoral authority, then who decides
what's truly good or evil? Without God, we risk
falling into moral relativism where everything
is permissible and nothing is certain. The philosopher
Jean -Paul Sartre, a key figure in existentialism,
argues that life has no inherent meaning without
God and people must create their own purpose.
While this might sound liberating, it can also
lead to despair. If meaning is self -created,
then it can also be easily destroyed. Without
an objective standard, morality and purpose become
fragile, and people can feel lost and directionless.
Consumer culture often presents itself as lehibrating,
while paradoxically, it can entrap individuals
in cycles of debt and consumption. The concept
of secular freedom varies across cultures. It's
often celebrated as a sign of modernity and progress.
Many societies tout secularism as a pathway to
liberation from oppressive traditions and dogmas.
But is this narrative as clear -cut as it seems?
Let's take a moment to reflect on how secularism
is perceived in various cultures. In Western
societies, secularism has often been equated
with individualism. The idea is that when we
have our ties with traditional religious structures,
we gain personal independence, the freedom to
think, believe, and live as we choose. This notion
is inspiring and promising a life free from constraints.
However, as we peel back the layers, we can see
that this perceived freedom can quickly morph
into a different kind of bondage. It's essential
to ask ourselves, are we truly free when our
decisions are driven by external influences,
particularly in consumer culture? In many cultures,
consumerism is heralded as liberation. Advertisements
scream at us, buy this and you'll be happy, or
own this and you'll be free, with her condition
to believe that the hat are worth as tied to
our possessions. This narrative suggests that
the more we consume, the more freedom we gain,
but the reality can be a stark contrast. Let's
consider the cycle of debt. In cultures that
glorify consumerism, The pressure to keep up
with the lehades trends can lead individuals
into financial traps. Many people accumulate
debt as they strive to maintain an image of success
and freedom. This cycle can be suffocating, lehading
individuals. It's rooted in the very structure
of our society. We're bombarded with messages
that equate success with material wealth. In
a sense, consumer culture can become a hotter
form of social status. But while we chase after
these shiny objects, we might unknowingly surrender
our true freedom, our freedom to be ourselves
without the weight of them from material expectations.
Let's take a moment to reflect on the cultural
variations of this experience. In some eastern
cultures, for instance, the emphasis on community
and collectivism can create a different dynamic.
Here, the pressure may not come from the individualistic
pursuit of consumer goods, but from societal
expectations to conform to a certain lifestyle
or role. While secularism in these societies
may provide an escape from rigid traditions,
the alternative can be just as constraining,
the obligation to fit into a collective mold.
The challenge remains the same. How do we navigate
our desires for individual freedom without becoming
ensnared into the cycles of societal expectations.
And the true question arises, what does true
freedom look like? Is it the ability to buy whatever
we want, or the free freedom to live authentically?
To understand this better, let's explore the
voices of those who have sought liberation outside
of consumerism. For many, the journey towards
authentic freedom involves consciously redefining
their relationship with consumption. Minimalism,
for example, has emerged as a counter movement
to hamper consumer culture. It encourages individuals
to ignore the excess and focus on what truly
matters. Imagine a life where you are not defined
by your possessions, but by your experiences,
relationships, and passions. This is the heart
of the minimalist philosophy. the idea that less
can indeed be more. We unlock a new kind of freedom,
and when we shift our focus from accumulating
things to cherishing moments. Now let's pivot
to a more global perspective. Across the world,
the various movements that challenge traditional
notions of freedom tied to consumption are emerging.
In many indigenous cultures, for example, the
values of sustainability and community stand
in stark contrast to the consumerist mindset.
Their understanding of freedom is rooted in a
deep connection to the land and their communities,
emphasizing harmony over excess. These cultures
remind us that freedom can manifest in many forms.
It can be found in the simplicity of daily life,
the bonds we forge with others, and the respect
we hold for our environment. The challenge is
not just to seek freedom, but to redefine what
that freedom means in our lives. Paul writes,
and we're home in 616, you are enslaved to the
one you obey, whether you are slaves to sin,
which leads to death. or obedience which leads
to righteousness. It's easy to think that rejecting
God means gaining independence, but in reality,
we often become slaves to our own desires. Addiction,
greed, lust, and selfish ambitions take control.
How frequently do we see people chasing money,
power, or pleasure, only to feel emptier than
before? Even the greatest philosophers in history
recognize that without God, life becomes meaningless.
Sartre and existentialists believe people had
to create meaning, but without a divine purpose,
that meaning is fragile and subjective. Let's
take a look at the ways society views success
and happiness. We are constantly told that we
need more. Money, more experiences, more relationships
to be fulfilled. But even the wealthiest and
most powerful people often feel empty. This is
because true fulfillment doesn't come from external
achievements, but rather a deeper spiritual connection
with God. So if a life without God isn't truly
free, what does real freedom look like? The paradox
of Christianity is that true freedom is found
in surrender, surrendering to God's will. Romans
8 -2 tells us, through Christ Jesus, the law
of the Spirit who gives life has set you free
from the law of sin and debt. When we submit
to God, we're no longer bound by sin. Instead,
we live in alignment with divine truth, experiencing
a deeper sense of peace and purpose. C .S. Lewis
put it best, the more we let God take us over,
the more truly ourselves we become. When we follow
Christ, we don't lose our identity. We discover
it. This may seem counterintuitive at first.
How can surrender lead to freedom? Imagine a
fish that wants to experience freedom by jumping
out of the water. It may feel unrestricted for
a brief moment, but outside of the water, it
can't survive. Similarly, we were designed to
live within the waters of God's truth. When we
step outside of His design, we may think we are
free, but we actually lose the very things that
sustain us. The pursuit of freedom can seem elusive
in a world that often feels overwhelming, filled
with pressures and experience. Expectations.
But what does it mean to find true freedom in
Christ? How do we practically take steps towards
that freedom? Many of us have heard the phrase,
where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
A powerful reminder that our true freedom is
rooted in our relationship with God. But what
does that look like in our everyday life? Imagine
this. You're carrying a heavy backpack filled
with rocks. each representing a burden, a fear,
a regret, or a sin. The longer you have that
backpack, the heavier it feels, and eventually
it becomes unbearable. Now think about what it
would feel like to set that backpack down. That's
the essence of finding freedom in Christ. It's
about letting go of the things that weigh us
down, and embracing the lightness and joy of
life dedicated to Him. Let's take a moment to
reflect on that. Community is essential. It's
not just about individual faith, it's about walking
together with others. Scripture tells us in Hebrews
10, 24, and 25, and let us consider how we may
spur one another towards love and good deeds,
not giving up and reheating together, as some
are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one
another. So if you're listening and feeling burdened,
I encourage you to contact someone, share your
struggles, your hopes and dreams. Find the community
that can uplift you. Surrender is often overlooked
in the pursuit of freedom. It's counterintuitive,
isn't it? We think we need to take control to
find freedom, but it's actually in giving up
control that we find true liberation. Prayer
and meditation are essential practices in our
faith journey. Let's talk about that for a moment.
How can listeners incorporate these spiritual
disciplines into their daily lives to experience
a deeper sense of freedom? Intentional prayer
and meditation create a space for God to speak
into our lives. They help us to align our will
with His and remind us of our identity in Christ.
It's powerful when we realize that our worth
isn't defined by our struggles, but by who God
says we are. While preparing for this week's
episode and reflecting on the type of message
I wanted to share, I found that freedom can also
be found through acts of service. Looking back
on my time serving various food banks, it's incredible
how serving others can shift our focus from our
struggles to the needs of those around us. In
Philippians 2, 3, and 4, we're reminded, do nothing
out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, rather
in humility. Value others above yourselves. Do
not look to your interests, but each of you to
the interests of the others. When we serve, we
bless others and experience freedom from our
burdens. It's a win -win. And remember, finding
freedom in Christ is a journey, not a destination.
It's filled with ups and downs, victories and
challenges. But through it all, we have the assurance
that God walks with us. I'd like to share a few
practical tips for anyone looking to embark on
their journey towards freedom in Christ. Number
one, start with prayer. Stay ahead of time daily
to pray. Talk to God about your burdens and ask
for His guidance. 2. Find a mentor. Seek out
someone who can walk alongside you in your journey.
A mentor can provide wisdom, accountability,
and support. 3. Engage in community. Join a small
group or a church where you can share your experiences
and grow together in faith. 4. Serve others.
Look for opportunities to serve in your community.
whether volunteering at a local shelter or helping
a neighbor. Serving can bring immense joy and
freedom. Number five, read scripture. Immerse
yourself in the word of God. It's through scripture
that we understand our identity and freedom we
have in Christ. So how do we apply this understanding
of freedom to our everyday lives? Here are three
key takeaways. Recognize what enslaves you. Are
there things in your life that have more control
over you than you realize? It can be unhealthy
habit, a toxic relationship, or an idol you've
placed above God. Acknowledging these things
is the first step towards true freedom. Number
two, trust God's design. The world tells us that
we are most free when we follow our own desires,
but God's word tells us that we are most free
when we follow him. Take time to study scripture
and see God's wisdom in your decisions. Number
three, find your identity in Christ. Instead
of looking to the world for validation and purpose,
root yourself in who God says you are. When you
truly understand that you are a beloved child
of God, you'll experience a deeper sense of peace
and freedom. So, is life without God really free?
Or is it just an illusion, an enticing mirage
that ultimately leads to emptiness? The epithel
answer is clear. Sir, freedom is not about living
without rules, but within God's design. It's
about being free from sin, not free from God.
The real question we should be asking ourselves
isn't, is life without God really free? But is
the thing I'm setting up in place of God worth
separation from Him? If you've grown up in the
church, you've probably heard the phrase, no
man can serve two masters. But if you haven't
grown up in the church, this phrase simply means
that you can't. be bound to sin and follow God.
Well, whatever you have going on in your life
that's stopping you from following Jesus, I would
encourage you to let that thing go. People go
on and on about how liberating it is to do some
death -defying stunt because of the adrenaline
it gives you. I get that saying hi when someone
comes up to me and tells me what they've been
going through and then they go on to say to me
that my podcast helped them gain a new perspective
on what they're dealing with. There is nothing
more lehibrating than following Jesus. Nothing
is more lehibrating than when someone asks you
something biblical and you can answer them with
full confidence. There is nothing more lehibrating
than having the opportunity to share the gospel
with someone. So we have established that no
man can serve two masters. And that simply means
you can't serve God and sin at the same time.
So what does that mean for someone trying to
serve only God going forward? Well, fasting is
the simplest way I have found to do this. You're
not going to quit serving two masters, cult turkey.
It is going to take some time. Quitting serving
two masters is like breaking a habit. Psychologists
say that breaking a habit takes approximately
18 to 256 days. Start small. Maybe a few days
without this other thing won't seem so bad. But
as time builds, it may become increasingly more
difficult or easier. The point is, if you value
this thing less than following God, it will be
a lot easier to forget about rather than keep
it going. As we wrap up today's episode, I encourage
you to step up and assess your own life. Are
you overwhelmed by choices? What strategies can
you implement today to simplify your decision
-making process? Remember, it's not about having
every option available. It's about making choices
that align with your values and bring you joy.
Are we truly free if societal pressures dictate
our choices or is true freedom found in the Kurds
to live authentically? How can we break free
from the shackles of consumerism and redefine
our understanding of what it means to live a
liberated life? Thank you for joining me today
on the Unfiltered Faith Podcast. If you enjoyed
today's discussion, don't forget to follow, give
it a review, and share it with someone who needs
to hear it. I'd love to connect with you. follow
me on Instagram at the Unfiltered Faith Podcast.
Until next time, keep seeking those fresh perspectives
and keep having those unfiltered conversations
with someone to better understand the world around
us.