EquipHer Vol. 8: "Lessons Learned on Working With Family"Sample

Day 1: Setting Clear Boundaries

Working with your family can be a blessing, but without the right boundaries, work can easily invade family space.

In a recent EquipHer Instagram Live session, Pastor Wendy Perez shared that, at first, she and her husband often worked nonstop, not knowing where work ended and family life began. Over time, they learned a key to having a healthy and productive relationship was to set clear times and spaces. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we are reminded that "there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." This call to honor the proper timing encourages us to give space to both work and family, ensuring that one does not interfere with the other, so we can live each moment with greater balance and intentionality.

When we don’t establish clear boundaries to protect time for work and family, we risk compromising our inner peace. Without defined limits, work can encroach on family time, creating frustration, stress, and a sense of imbalance. This not only undermines personal serenity but can also damage our relationships.

Moreover, Paul urges us in 1 Corinthians 14:40: "Let all things be done decently and in order." The principle of order that Paul speaks about is vital in balancing our professional and family spheres, especially when these two areas overlap. The order Paul describes can only exist if we establish clear boundaries that prevent family roles from mixing with work roles. Without these boundaries, we risk subordinating our family relationships to our professional commitments, undermining communication quality and mutual respect.

Establishing clear boundaries, therefore, is not just a matter of practical organization but an act of care and protection for our relationships. When we create distinct spaces for work and family life, we honour both spheres, allowing them to thrive without interfering with one another. In this way, we preserve the peace, harmony, and emotional stability necessary to live a balanced life.

Reflective Questions:

• How do I manage the boundaries between work and family life?
• What is one thing I can do today to make sure work stays at work, and does not invade family time or relationships?

Prayer: Lord, help me set healthy boundaries between my work and family life. Help me understand the importance of protecting my time with my family, so that I can be the person You desire in every area of my life. Amen.