We Can Set Boundaries

Warning

JUser: :_load: Unable to load user with ID: 97

We Can Set Boundaries

It’s easier said than done, but loving ourselves includes setting boundaries. It requires that we find the courage to say "no" to requests that we were never called to bear – and only "yes" to God’s agenda for our lives.

The Bible teaches that loving ourselves is not selfish. In fact, it is absolutely necessary. Eight times, we are instructed, "Love your neighbor as you love yourself" (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 19:19; Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:31; Luke 10:27; Romans 13:9; Galatians 5:14; James 2:8). In essence: The way we love others is contingent on how well we first love ourselves.

Has your inability to say “no” depleted your energy, increased your stress, or stolen your joy?

Jesus understood the importance of setting limits. He did not allow others to define His purpose, dictate His agenda, or subject Him to situations that ran contrary to God’s plan.

When Jesus’ family attempted to divert Him away from His ministry, He resisted them (Matthew 12:46-50). – Jesus knew His purpose. When the crowd tried to throw Jesus off the cliff because He claimed to be the Messiah, He escaped them (Luke 4:28-30). – Jesus knew how to walk away. When Peter told Jesus that He wouldn't have to suffer, Jesus rebuked him (Matthew 16:21-22). – Jesus knew God’s plan.

Like Christ, we must know our purpose, know when to walk away, and know God’s plan for our lives. Therefore, set boundaries. As a great writer once wrote, "Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying ‘yes’ too quickly, and not saying ‘no’ soon enough."

Written by: Marsha DuCille - Publisher/Editorial Director
publisher @ calledmagazine.com