Relational Boundaries

The Third of the Three Boundaries

Relational boundaries save us time and heartache. Investing our resources where they're best redeemed requires strong boundaries, and we must be okay with some people not understanding or becoming embittered. Jesus modeled these strong relational boundaries.

1. Don't get derailed from your calling when you know God's will.

"And he said to them, 'Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out.'" (Mark 1:38)

"For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me." (John 6:38)

Jesus did not allow others' expectations or demands to pull Him away from His mission. We've all had times when even well-meaning people tried to hold us back from our calling. Jesus loved people well but refused to compromise His obedience to God to satisfy others. His boundary ensured that his primary focus remained on fulfilling his Father's will.

2. Set limits on access and time.

Jesus often withdrew from the crowds and even from His disciples to pray and spend time with God.

"But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray." (Luke 5:16).

"And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray." (Mark 6:46)

Jesus often withdrew from the crowds and even from His disciples to pray and spend time with God. It can be challenging to leave a party, and others may wonder where you went. But Jesus showed that even in a life of service, there is a need to set limits on relational access to prioritize rest, prayer, and renewal. This boundary allowed Jesus to remain spiritually strong and focused. Never let access to you and your time be manipulated at the cost of getting personal time with God.

3. Speak Truth in Relationships.

“To the woman caught in adultery, "Jesus said, 'Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.'" (John 8:11)

“And to the Pharisees Jesus said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness." (Matthew 23:27)

Jesus was full of compassion, but He did not shy away from confronting sin or hypocrisy. Jesus maintained a balance between grace and truth, offering forgiveness and love while also holding people accountable. He avoided enabling sin or condoning hypocrisy, even when it was uncomfortable or unpopular. He challenged his closest friends and the highest-profile religious leaders, and you can do the same.

Karl

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