Boundaries #2

Set up a fence for the people all around and tell them, ‘Be careful not to go up the mountain or to touch any part of it.’ Anyone who even touches the mountain must be put to death.  Exodus 19:12 CEB

The king will say, “I did this with my own two powerful hands. I did this with my wisdom, because I am so clever. I’ve eliminated the boundaries of nations. I’ve looted treasuries. I’ve brought down people like a mighty man. Isaiah 10:13 God’s Word (GW)

We all need boundaries. When we eliminate boundaries in our relationships we lose our ability to think clearly. Author Christina Hergenrader tells about this in Family Trees & Olive Branches:

An aunt who gave $25,000 every Christmas to her niece expected her to come and visit her on Saturdays. While visiting the aunt the niece was derided and talked down to each time. When the niece had children and wanted to bring them along, the aunt said she didn’t want the children and still expected the niece to come regularly; and she never was nice to her. Finally, the niece decided she wanted to spend her Saturdays with her husband and family and told the aunt she was not coming. She expected the $25,000 gift to end and that was okay with her. Lo and behold the $25,000 came that Christmas just as always and the aunt started to be nice to the niece. The niece putting up boundaries was the right thing to do and helped the situation.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to know how to stay inside the boundaries you have set for us. Help us to love each person around us but be aware of those who have no boundaries. Guide us in all situations. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck