We can be so busy and so intent on being “the winner” or being “the best” or “the richest” or “the thinnest” or “the most popular,” that we forget what is really important in our lives – our faith, our family, our friends, forgiveness, and fun! [1]
The journey to find SANITY doesn’t happen overnight. It isn’t just a matter of understanding what the word means or what types of boundaries exist, although these are important things to know. Understanding boundaries really begins when we stop seeing ourselves as helpless in a drowning situation and realize how much power we have over our actions and emotions. More important, understanding boundaries is also being aware of what God’s Word teaches us about the critical aspect of protecting our hearts.
One of the most powerful actions we can take in life is to choose to be in relationships that bring out the best in us, that nurture our heart and that allow us to bring out the best in others as well.
We must ask ourselves,
- Am I treating the vessel God has given me with honor, respect and love?
- Is the person I am today the person God is calling me to be?
- Is my relationship with food and eating bringing out the best in me?
- If God has made a difference in my life, am I a walking, talking, visual example of that difference?
We are walking on a tightrope every day of our life.
Let’s think of God as our balance beam.
When we firmly grasp His principles, plans, and purpose for our lives, we can securely put one foot in front of the other and make it safely to the other side of any trial, tribulation, or turmoil.
But our steps need to be intentional and deliberate choices we make every single day. Choices based on balancing relationships, responsibilities, and boundaries.
It’s true, our lives belong to God, and as such we have a responsibility to Him. Although it is our responsibility to nurture our relationship with the Lord, it’s far more of an honor, privilege, and blessing to be able to do so, especially through prayer.
Some of us may struggle with the emotional side-effects of not setting the appropriate boundaries at the appropriate time. Just because we have felt unable in the past to make healthy choices in circumstances or relationships, doesn’t mean we are doomed to continue the same course. We can jump off the gerbil wheel of insanity at any time—and into the arms of a loving Father who will never forsake us.
It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. Deutoronomy 31:8
1Dr. Debra D. Peppers, Ph.D., It’s Your Turn Now (Kirkwood, MO: Impact Christian Books, Inc., 2001), 84.
Adapted from Setting Boundaries with Food, Six Steps to Lose Weight, Gain Freedom, and Take Back Your Life by Allison Bottke © 2008. Harvest House Publishers. All rights reserved.
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