The idea of free choice has occupied thinkers for centuries. [They used their free choice to explore the topic - or did they. Maybe they were compelled from Above?]
In the Rambam he lays down very clearly and uncategorically that man has free choice and doesn't add a caveat that at times free choice is denied us and we sin due to a divine decree. However, there are psukim and gemaros that point in that very direction.
Here is a shiur that discusses this issue and the ramifications for avodas Hashem.
It is a tour de force....