Juggling LifeSample

Boundary Builders

Every wall needs a foundation. You can't build on air and should never build on sand. In Matthew 7:24-25 (MSG), Jesus says His Words are “words to build your life on,” meaning when you start doing what you're learning, you’re an intelligent carpenter who built his house upon the solid rock.” Knowing that when you do, neither rain, floods, nor powerful winds can take that house down.

There’s a popular phrase that accuses certain people of being "selective listeners," those who only listen to what they want to hear. But, unfortunately, there are some Christians who’ve become "selective doers" These are people who juggle their life by building parts of it on the rock of God’s words, and the other parts on the words of others (sinking sand.)

In Mark 4:24, Jesus said, "Be careful what you hear." Simply put, what you hear is determined by whom you listen to.

Imagine how many accidents would occur if our roads and highways had no boundaries. We need boundaries in our life, especially around our portals, those entry points we call our eyes and ears. Boundaries keep us safe. Creating boundaries in what and to whom we listen will help protect us from the world’s system and culture that desperately wants to influence us!

Boundaries not only protect us, but they also direct us. Since the Garden of Eden, God has set boundaries. In Genesis, God sets boundaries for Adam and Eve, not only for them but for all of humanity. He did this to protect them, and He does this to protect us. Unfortunately, the consequences of their ignoring God’s boundaries were so disastrous that the effect of Adam’s failure is still going on.

You can set boundaries by naming and framing your limits. Speak out and declare what your boundaries are. Ask God for wisdom if you’re unsure where the lines should be drawn. James 1:8 says that God will give us wisdom if we ask for it. Set your boundaries like framing the foundation of a house. Isaiah 50:7 (NLT) says, “Set your face like a stone, determined to do His will.” This is an excellent way to build your boundaries.

Reflection: What boundaries have the Father asked you to establish in your life? Can you name them and write them down? The tougher part is how well you keep yourself within those active boundaries.