Boundaries – Part 1
Boundaries – Part 1
Have you been aware of a time in your ministry when you felt drained, guilty, or irritable for no clear reason, burdened to produce a solution, or unsettled after talking to someone?
Sometimes when we are discouraged by not seeing visible fruit from our efforts, we might react by working harder, redoubling our efforts, and spreading ourselves thinner, inevitably leading to greater fatigue and eventual burn-out. It can be difficult to make sense of this when we have felt a strong sense of calling to our ministry and it is helpful to be reminded of God’s truths in scripture about personal boundaries.
What are healthy personal boundaries? Boundaries define what our responsibility is and what is not. What is “me” and what is “not me.” They are healthy limits that protect our personal well-being and ensure the healthiest possible relationship with others. They are something we choose about ourselves - we do not put them on other people. They are permeable, but also self-protective.
Boundaries are planned and authored by God. From the beginning of the world, God clearly defines who He is (John 1:1-5) and who He is not (I John 1:5 In Him there is no darkness). What He allows (Gal 3:22) and what He does not – blaspheming the Spirit (Mark 3:29). What is our job (Remain in Him John 15) and what is not (Isaiah 55:8-9 His ways are not our ways). In Proverbs 4:23, we are told to guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from our hearts. Matthew 7:6 we are told not to cast pearls before swine, as they will be trampled! The Apostle Paul encourages us in Galatians 6:2-5 to carry each other’s burdens (compassionately help others in need), but to carry our own load (shoulder our own responsibilities). Even more to the point, Jesus stands at the door and knocks but waits for an invitation from us (Rev. 3:20). God freely offers the gift of salvation but waits for us to accept the gift. He is showing us respect for personal boundaries and expects us to do the same with others.
As you read this, we are praying for God to give you wisdom as you minister to others this week. Next week we will be sharing some tips to help in maintaining healthy relationships and avoiding burnout on the mission field.
-The MissioCare Collective Team