Living in the Freedom of Christ

Providence Media. May 14–18, 2025

Spring has arrived in Holland, Michigan. The days are getting longer, tulips are beginning to bloom, and the Tulip Time Festival is just around the corner. It’s a season that reminds us that after winter, new life always comes. And in that same spirit, our church has just finished walking through a season of spiritual renewal with our sermon series: "Freedom in Christ."

Rooted in the powerful words of Jesus in John 8:36 — “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” — we’ve rediscovered that true freedom isn’t just external; it’s deep, spiritual, and transformational.

Here are four practical principles we’ve explored to help us live in that true freedom every day:

  1. Don’t believe everything you think.
    We often accept thoughts that don’t come from God: “I’m not worthy,” “I’ll always mess up,” “God doesn’t care about me.” But real freedom begins when we stop believing lies and start living by the truth of God’s Word. Renew your mind daily with what He says about you.

  2. Make forgiveness a way of life.
    Forgiveness isn’t a feeling—it’s a decision. Sometimes it’s daily, sometimes it’s painful, but it always brings healing. Forgiving others—and yourself—frees your heart to live again.

  3. Surrender your battles to God.
    Don’t hide your struggles—whether it’s pornography, anger, pride, or fear. Jesus didn’t come to condemn you—He came to set you free. Talk to someone you trust, seek accountability, and set healthy boundaries. You’re not alone.

  4. Pray for your family and break destructive patterns.
    Maybe your story includes generations marked by abandonment, addiction, or abuse. But in Christ, your story can change. Pray. Name those chains. And begin building a new spiritual legacy in your home.

We also invite you to listen to the latest episode of our Providence Threads Podcast, where Pastor Toby Gruppen sits down with Dean Vander Mey, Executive Director of Set Free Ministries. Together, they go deeper into these principles and share real-life stories of spiritual freedom. Don’t miss it!

As tulips begin to bloom throughout our city, may freedom, grace, and new life bloom in your heart through Christ.

Providence Church