Setting Boundaries In Love
No is a complete sentence.
On limits that protect relationships rather than end them.
The big idea
A boundary is not a wall against someone. It is a definition of where you begin.
Opening scripture
“Just let your yes be yes and your no be no. Anything beyond that comes from evil.”
What does “Setting Boundaries In Love” walk through?
Let Your Yes Be Yes
Matthew 5:37 · KJV
But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
In plain English
Just let your yes be yes and your no be no. Anything beyond that comes from evil.
Clarity Is Kind
Jesus asks for plain speech. A vague yes you resent later does more damage than an honest no said today.
As Far As It Depends On You
Romans 12:18 · KJV
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
In plain English
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
“Saying yes to everything is not generosity. It is often just fear of the conversation.”
Your Own Work
Galatians 6:4 · KJV
But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
In plain English
Test your own work. Then your sense of worth will come from what you did, not from comparing yourself to someone else.
Limits Make Love Sustainable
People who never say no do not love more. They usually burn out and then withdraw entirely, which helps nobody.
Pray
God, give me courage for the honest no and grace for the true yes. Amen.
Write it down
What yes do you need to take back this week?
Say it plainly
Clear is kind. Vague is not.
Which passages does this journey use?
3 passages, drawn from Matthew 5:37, Romans 12:18, Galatians 6:4. Every verse appears here in the King James text with a plain-English line beside it, so you can read it without a commentary open. Allow about 6 minutes for the whole thing, or 7 short sittings.
- Matthew 5:37
- Romans 12:18
- Galatians 6:4
Read any of these in full on the complete KJV, or look the wording up independently at Blue Letter Bible.
More in Relationships
All Relationships →Choosing Your Circle
You become the room you stand in.
When A Friendship Ends
Grief nobody throws you a funeral for.
Being The Only Christian In The Group
Faithful without being obnoxious.
Loving Your Siblings
The people you did not choose.
When Home Is Hard
For anyone whose house is not a refuge.
Honoring Parents You Disagree With
Respect that is not agreement.