Laws of Relating
Love and Boundaries – Part 2
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 5:3-7
Key Verse: Ephesians 5:1-2
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children
2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Because of the many problems we encounter in relating to our relations, a second day of study on boundaries is merited. Setting boundary lines with anyone is tough but it is especially difficult with relatives! Relatives have the guilt factor that plays heavily in the equation!
Drawing boundary lines around yourself takes great courage. The Bible has 352 “be not afraids”; one for each day of the year! God knows that life itself takes courage and faith in His promises. Start this process by asking God for courage to do what is good and healthy within your relationships.
The second step is to clearly identify what and where the boundary lines are. If I don’t know where your boundary lines are, I’m sure to cross them if I get into a relationship with you. If you kindly and lovingly let me know, I will honor those lines if I want to stay in relationship with you.
Finally, and probably most importantly, I must be willing to live with my relatives not being pleased with all my decisions. When we live to please others, others are pleased to live our lives for us! It is ok if a relative does not like your boundary lines. They will get over it. If they don’t you are still set free of their control. If you have prayerfully and kindly shown them your boundary lines, you’ve done what you’ve needed to do.
Father, grant me your strength, courage and wisdom to relate to my relations. Give me your loving heart and keep me strong! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.