Freedom was an essential element in the formation of our country. And while liberty is still a hallmark, many people in America are in bondage to beliefs and actions that make them anything but free.

Here are some points to consider in attaining true freedom:

Trust

Many have been betrayed and hurt by someone in their lives they loved and trusted. Once trust is broken, it's difficult to piece it back together. Often bad experiences shape how we view God and have an impact on our willingness to trust him. We become slaves to our jobs or engage in behaviors we feel provide security. But the Bible tells us that without faith, without trust, it is impossible to please God.

Honor

Most of us honor someone or something more than we honor God. Our time and attention go toward people and things, and consequently, away from God. We're exhausted and unhappy from all the striving and can't figure out why we feel defeated. True freedom comes in honoring God first.

Repent

Somewhere along the way, the idea of admitting wrong-doing fell by the wayside. People go to elaborate lengths to blame others for their mistakes and avoid responsibility for things they've done or failed to do. Habitual sin is often equated with personal liberty, but the Bible makes it clear that repentance is essential to spiritual freedom. Until we acknowledge our sin, it remains a barrier between us and God. As long as unrepentant sin is present, we're in bondage. To repent literally means to turn and go in the other direction—away from sin and toward the freedom of repentance.

Truth

For years there has been a push toward relative or situational truth. With this kind of thinking, right and wrong cease to exist and truth becomes what each person perceives. But a nebulous concept of truth is actually anything but freeing. My grandfather once said, "When you tell the truth, you don't have to remember what you said." Truth uncomplicates life.

Myth

Many people are slaves to superstition. The engage in unnecessary practices and rituals in an attempt to control their lives. Spiritually, they are dead because they're bound to senseless activities that negate the power and presence of God. Myths breed fear and a life riddled with fear is devoid of freedom.

Freedom

Our Founding Fathers knew the importance of religious freedom because they experienced religious oppression firsthand. But a greater level of freedom, which even some Christians fail to recognize, comes through surrender to and life in Christ. "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).

At this time of the year when we celebrate freedom, embrace the spiritual liberty you enjoy through Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross.