Relationships That Flourish: A 30-Day Devotional on Finding Security in Christ and Growing Healthy Connectionsಮಾದರಿ

In John 6, after feeding the five thousand, the crowd wanted to make Jesus king, but He withdrew. They thought Jesus had come to be a political ruler, but His mission was to bring a spiritual kingdom instead. Jesus knew their expectations did not align with the Father’s plan. By setting this boundary, He refused to be defined by their demands and chose to follow the Father’s greater plan. His example reminds us that boundaries are not selfish when they are rooted in God’s will.

Without God’s wisdom, it’s easy to swing between extremes—either having no boundaries at all or having boundaries so rigid that we keep others at a distance. Imagine boundaries like a fence around a house. If a house is left unlocked and the door wide open, anyone can come and go as they please—this reflects having no boundaries. Another house has a tall, solid fence with no way in, representing boundaries that are too strict. Another house has a fence with a gate, representing healthy boundaries. It is approachable, allowing guests to enter, yet still provides protection.

In the same way, healthy boundaries allow us to be known and to know others while respecting one another’s autonomy. They create space for mutual love and service without losing sight of who God has called each of us to be. Jesus prioritized the spiritual best over social affirmation. Likewise, our boundaries should reflect God’s wisdom—serving others without neglecting our ultimate call to honor Him.

Reflect: Take a moment to journal or draw a picture illustrating what healthy boundaries would look like for you currently, including areas where your boundaries are too loose or too strict. Share this list with a trusted friend or counselor and ask them to help keep you accountable to the healthy boundaries you've identified.

Pray: Lord, You are the God of all wisdom! Help me to understand what healthy boundaries look like in my life, and give me the courage to make decisions that align with those values.