Blessed by Boundaries

Years ago, I had a next-door neighbor arrive with a large, unfriendly dog. This necessitated a high fence to protect my children. The boundaries that were put up had two main purposes: keeping bad elements (mean dog) out and keeping good elements (children) safely inside.

God also has boundaries for us that we don’t always see. These boundaries are a blessing because they keep us from going where we shouldn’t be found. Yet, we can get frustrated by our boundaries because we want what we want when we want it.

However, God’s boundaries serve the same purpose of protection whether keeping us safely more dependent on Him or keeping the bad elements of sinful influence out of reach. His boundaries could be financial (we can’t spend the money we want), professional (we can’t work where we want), relational (we remain married or unmarried), etc. These boundaries are meant to keep us where we should be found in Christ. Without boundaries, many of us would be sucked right back up into the world’s system of thinking.

We can experience the blessing of boundaries if we learn the secret of contentment right where God has us. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-13 that we can:

#1) Learn to be content in every situation:
“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”

#2) Do whatever God gives us to do:
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Our boundaries can be a blessing because they often keep us from falling into sinful situations if we were left to our decisions and desires. As we mature and grow in Christ, He may expand our boundaries for His purposes and plans for our lives.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for the boundaries that have kept me from falling into the depths of sin’s depravity. You are a good Father to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

In His Service,

Republished by Blog Post Promoter