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Have you ever had a friendship or relationship come in conflict? One that you thought never would? Chances are you have! And if you have, then you know just how painful that can be. We can all probably relate to the story of Paul and Barnabas in Acts. After building a strong, close friendship traveling the known world together to share the message of Jesus, the two had a disagreement and found themselves at a crossroads. While Barnabas wanted his cousin, John Mark, to join their journey, Paul was skeptical of bringing him along. So, they argued, so much so that they ended up parting ways totally. They were suddenly in need of a break—a boundary in the friendship. Were they probably frustrated? Upset? Disappointed? Of course!

A change in a relationship that close isn’t easy. But because the two men chose to settle their showdown in a healthy way, they were able to go forward and continue the good work God had for them. That’s the power of a good boundary! It can benefit both people. As you think through the conflicts and relationships in your own life, consider how you can set a good boundary where you need it. Remember, that boundary is a bridge, not a barrier, and just like Paul and Barnabas, it can be the thing that changes you, the other person, and the relationship as a whole for the better.