Most of the time I find it is easier to obtain something than it is to maintain something.  We tend to get laxer on things that we feel is a given.  That is why many marriages fail.  We do what it takes to get hitched but then fail to grow in our relationship with the other person.  Same is with our walk with the Lord.  Sometimes we forget how precious and fragile freedom is.  If we are not careful, enduring freedom can turn into eroding freedom.