Are you struggling with overwhelm? I’m definitely in it with you, friend!
I’ve noticed a growing number of us struggle to keep up with the blistering pace of modern life. Technology has blessed us with convenience, but cursed us with hurried hearts. And combined with pandemic overload, we’re all swimming in a sea of sharks ready to attack our peace on a moment’s notice!
One way we can prevent overwhelm is by creating boundaries. We can set boundaries with our time or with family and friends. Are you missing sticky notes from your paper planner or snapping at family and friends frequently? That might mean it’s time to set some boundaries in your life.
“But how?” you ask.
Admittedly, it isn’t easy. When we set boundaries to protect ourselves, sometimes they encroach on or offend those around us. But that’s when we have to rely on God’s leading to help us navigate that inevitable tension.
He taught us that boundaries keep us safe and protect us from harm. He is the vine and we are the branches (John 15:5). As branches, to thrive and produce fruit, we must be pruned to prevent overgrowth, disease, and death. We are also dependent on Him for our sustenance, as water and nutrients can only reach the branches via the vine.
So, for us to thrive and survive, we are meant to be cut back. Likewise, as Christ’s image-bearers, we are meant to mirror His example and prune our own lives. Clipping our calendar commitments might actually be an act of worship. Saying “no” to another invitation might be God’s whisper to spend more time with Him. Not responding right away to that text could give you time to pray about your response and better mirror His love.
When the pushback to our limits comes from the loud world around us and even some well-intentioned people we love, if we put Christ first, we’ll find that standing firm is worth any temporary pain. If we cling to His life-giving love, perhaps we’ll see that the boundaries others might deride actually bring us closer to our Source, our Creator, and our Guide. And friend, that’s a cure for overwhelm we can trust every time, everyday.
What an awesome reminder!
Hi Mary! Thanks so much for swinging by my blog! So glad my little blog resonated with you today! Sending love and hugs across the miles!
Love this, Allison! I can totally relate! I’m so proud of you!
Hey Krista! So glad you had a moment to stop by my little blog! Thanks so much for your steadfast encouragement! You’re the best! Praying you through these next few weeks!
Thanks for sharing. I’m not always great at these boundaries, so this was a nice reminder.
Thanks for stopping by! I’m with you! We’ll work together to be better!
This is an area I have been working on lately! Thank you for the reminder.
Working on it with you, Jen! Thanks for stopping by!
I have a hard time with boundaries but I know how important it is. This post is filled with examples that are so relevant to my life!
Hi Lori! Yes to boundaries being super hard! So glad we can lift each other up as we navigate this crazy life together!
This is a great unique perspective to His boundaries for us.
Hi Rachel! Glad you enjoyed this little post. Blessings to you!
Thanks so much for this encouraging post! Boundaries can be hard for me. I love how you shared about putting Jesus first and drawing closer to him in this process! Best thing! Thanks so much again for another needed post!
Hi again Nikki! So glad this little post encouraged you, friend! Working on boundaries right alongside you!