They say to go and protect, to defend your country, and stand by your sworn duty to give to those who are oppressed. Men and women in the military do sacrifice their lives for our nation, but this sacrifice comes at a price. They often lose a sense of who they are. As a military spouse, it has been difficult for me to witness my husband constrained by the demands of defending his country, struggling to find freedom in the midst of moments that dominate his thoughts. It is disheartening to see him question the purpose of his service due to a lack of leadership and direction. I invite all those who have served or will serve to reflect on the concept of freedom and its relation to their mental state.
The Meaning of Freedom: The definition of freedom encompasses the power or right to act, speak, and change as one desires without hindrance or restraint. It is closely associated with liberty and autonomy, which implies the ability to establish one's own principles. Freedom, in its truest sense, allows for change and is not confined to a particular state. However, the paradox arises when those who defend and believe in freedom lose sight of it once they face the challenges that come with protecting the rights of individuals.
Challenges Faced: As military personnel, they are granted the freedom to defend, yet they often feel confined by intrusive thoughts of being foreign to their own land. This contradiction raises important questions.
Why is it that those who fight for freedom struggle to find it themselves?
How does the concept of freedom evolve from what we believed it to be?
Does freedom extend to our mental state?
These questions demand introspection and self-reflection.
Finding Freedom Within: In my search to understand and equip military personnel in reclaiming their freedom, I believe that it lies within their psychological and spiritual state. As a military spouse, I have witnessed the toll it takes on individuals, and I am convinced that true freedom can be found in these aspects of life. It is here that I turn to my faith and share a perspective that might resonate with others.
The Power of Faith: To my husband, Joe, and all those who have served, I express my gratitude for your dedication to our country, our family, and those who are oppressed. While there are numerous definitions of freedom, I firmly believe that true freedom is derived from Christ. It is through faith that one can surpass human limitations and realize the supernatural work of God, which replaces our limited understanding of freedom.
NIV 13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh ; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
This verse reinforces the idea that through faith in Christ, we can experience true freedom and liberation from the constraints that hold us back.
The pursuit of freedom is a complex journey for those who serve in the military. It is crucial to reflect on the meaning of freedom and the challenges faced when defending it. As a military spouse, I encourage all service members to delve into their psychological and spiritual well-being in order to find true freedom. Ultimately, I believe that freedom originates from Christ and empowers us to transcend our limited perspectives, revealing the supernatural work of God.
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