Boundaries

For over 30 years of my life I did not know what a boundary was. As a result, I gave myself to every lost puppy I met. Friends and boyfriends alike. I was always trying to "help" and only thought of how I could solve their problems. Make them better. The more unreasonable the demand the more I felt I had to meet that want. I thought they were needs at the time. Instead of feeling fulfilled, I often came away feeling despair because what I had done for them wasn't appreciated or reciprocated. 

God started showing me what boundaries were, but I just didn't get it. A good friend gave me a Townsend and Cloud book called "Boundaries" and I finally understood the concept but didn't know how to apply it. This has been a 10 year lesson for me. Slowly, I have developed healthy boundaries that protect my mental and physical health, my time, my friendships, and my daughter. 

God showed me in Nehemiah, how he had Nehemiah and Ezra rebuild the walls in Jerusalem to protect His people and to provide a safe place to cleanse the city. With the walls and gates in repair the people were able to control who and what they let into the city. 

My boundaries have ultimately lead to safe relationships, peace, and a healthy mind. A place where I can lose weight and become active. I keep healthy boundaries by being obedient to God and His Word. Praise God!