Boundaries & limits

Jesus showed us the most perfect way to live. We model our lives off his example.  As I have studied particular aspects of His life, I see that He lived within certain boundaries. He took time to rest and often drew away from the crowds (Luke 5:16). He said no to Peter and others when they had another agenda for Him (Matthew 16:23).  

Boundaries are good for us, even though we kick against them from time to time. They provide safety and order in our lives. Even creation has limits (the sun rises and sets, the tides come and go and the seasons change within their boundaries set by God). Do you have the courage to provide healthy boundaries in your own life and that of your family?  

Romans 8 teaches us that a mind controlled by the Spirit leads to life and peace, but that a life without the limits set by God leads to death. 

As parent, businessperson, housewife, friend, counselor or athlete, it’s really important to set boundaries around your roles and be present when you are with your children. When we model being available, we show love and value to our children. We teach them that they are more important than a myriad of other things clamoring for our attention.

Social media is another challenge. In our home, my husband is attempting at minimizing the infiltration of social media onto our family time through ‘225’ (2 social media options, twice a day for 5 minutes each). Another family trend that we are trying to establish is that between 6-8pm every night we are all off our devices. This is our dinner time and the one part of the day when we are normally all at home. 

What boundaries do you need to reinforce? Do you need to adapt your working hours, set your phone on silent at certain times or switch the radio off when you are driving home so that you can all talk? What do you need to say yes or no to? Live by the leading of the Holy Spirit and in doing so walk in the freedom that it brings.