When people hear the word "religion" or think about God, the first idea that pops into their heads isn't usually permission. God is considered controlling, religion is considered limiting, and neither of them seem to be concerned with empowering people. This false reputation of both God and Christianity is absolutely tragic. 

God loves to empower people to do things that they and they alone are uniquely capable of doing. God loves to challenge people to grow beyond what they already are and find what he has for them. God loves to give people permission to pursue a full and passionate version of life - and thankfully, because he is kind, he shows people where and how that life can be found.