The world has trained us to believe that boundaries are restrictive, enforced from a point of defensiveness, and a roadblock to healthy relationships.Being known by God and knowing Him in return comes with the standard that it looks differently than we are accustomed to in a broken world. From the moment of creation there have been standards and expectations for entering the holiest of holies, for entering the most sacred intimacy, for walking in relationship with a Holy God, as His Holy creation. Yet, we constantly insist on pushing the limits. We hurt ourselves, others, and our relationship with Jesus in the crossfire of trying to make our own rules. Boundary lines as God intended are a sacred establishment delegating ownership, creating safety, and fostering intimacy. Just like we get to choose to walk in intimacy with a savior, relational boundaries are intended to be a safe place to walk in intimacy with others.
Hebrews 9:2 A tabernacle was set up. In its first room were the lampstand and the table with its consecrated bread; this was called the Holy Place. 3 Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place.
Main point:
Boundaries declare ownership
In a culture that tells us anything is attainable if we fight for it, it’s easy to accept the lie that an enforced boundary means we are uninvited and cast aside. Or that to enforce a limit means we are judgemental and unaccepting. The Bible tells us that boundaries are sacred conduits of freedom. Boundaries allow people the freedom to choose what level of relationship they have the capacity to step into. When we begin viewing our humanity as a sacred creation, made in the image of a holy creator, we treat one another with respect, generosity, kindness, and grace in a way the world has hardened us to. Boundaries are not meant to close us off from one another and the world, but to openly declare we are Holy Territory, made in the image of a Holy God. Entering close is meant to be a choice, and a public celebration of who we are and who we belong to. What does it look like if we start treating our relationships like we are approaching holy ground? What impact could we have if we stopped treating boundaries like caution tape or a keep out sign to the world, and rather like a standard we’ve always been called to? Have you chosen to enter into the Holiest of Holies, or do you stand outside the perimeter wishing you had been invited?
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