Bottom Line

Boundaries are essential for right and loving relationships.

Reason #1: Boundaries are necessary if we’re going to prioritize our walk with God.

That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was. Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”
Mark 1:32

Reason #2: Boundaries can protect us within relationships.

Reason #3: Boundaries enable us to focus on what’s most important.

Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?”
Luke 12:13

Boundaries equip us to say no to good things in order to say yes to the most important thing.

2 Categories of Boundaries

1. Boundaries WITHIN a relationship
2. Boundaries AROUND a relationship

Action Steps

1. Reflect on the three examples of Jesus setting boundaries, which sticks out to you the most:
   1. Setting a boundary on time in order to prioritize our relationship with God the Father?
   2. Saying no to good things in order to say yes to the best thing?
   3. Setting a boundary within an unhealthy relationship with the goal of honoring ourselves and the other person?
2. Practice saying “no” to something this week in order to say “yes” to God.