The Boundaries Of JesusSample

Boundaries Allow Us to Say Yes to What Matters

Jesus often set boundaries by saying, “no.” He said no because it allowed Him to say yes to more important matters.

This too is how we should learn from the example of Jesus. By setting boundaries of saying no, we are allowing ourselves to say yes to our values, our mission, our calling, and our priorities.

Saying no is not mean or selfish here. It’s to serve a bigger purpose.

We see a clear example of Jesus saying no in a loving way with Mary and Martha. In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus enters the home of Martha. While Martha is busy preparing a meal for Jesus, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet. Angry, Martha asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her.

Jesus’ response to Martha is powerful. He says, "You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Jesus set a boundary of no so a bigger yes could unfold.

Another example also includes Mary and Martha. John 11 tells the story of Jesus hearing that Mary and Martha’s brother, Lazarus, is sick. But when He heard this news, He did something odd: He stayed where He was for two more days.

By the time He does show up, Lazarus has already been dead for four days. Why did Jesus say no to coming immediately? So a bigger yes could occur.

Because Jesus waited, He performed the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead.

When we practice boundaries by saying no with love, we allow bigger yeses to unfold in our lives. In this way, setting boundaries is not mean or selfish. They are the conduit for God’s purpose to enter the world.

Are you willing to say no for a bigger yes? Reflect on this question today.