Can we have a moment to talk candidly on a sensitive topic that needs honest dialogue?

I, unfortunately, find this to be a real issue within all realms of the body of Christ. So, let’s commit to doing better.

It is not good to always be pushing other’s boundaries.

The Christ-led life will have the utmost integrity when it comes to this. Healthy boundaries are important. We need them to have peace in our lives, space for rest, and also to be able to fulfill God’s assignments for us.

However, the other side of that coin is respecting the boundaries others put in place also.

When we continuously breach someone’s boundaries we are revealing a heart issue.

It is one of self-focus and never considering someone else. It’s like we are demanding our own way regardless of how it makes others feel.

Even in the area of leadership in the publishing world, I have an expectation that others will honor the systems I have in place which allow me to operate in more effective ways to handle pressing needs.

Remember when in school, particularly college? Much of the lessons we learned were simply how to follow instructions.

The same is true within the body of Christ. We must honor boundaries.

It is part of any new life in Jesus. Look at it as a “fine-tooth comb” kind of thing. Whereby we adjust old behaviors to new ones.

This is one of those “little foxes” that can spoil the vine.

I pay a lot of attention to this when considering ministry potential, partners, etc.

If immediately my boundaries are crossed I have a check. I extend grace. When it begins to happen over and over again, I know there is a pattern of behavior that could be problematic to the testimony of Jesus, as well as the effectiveness of Kingdom work. I actually learned this while in the secular world of business but how much more important is it for the followers of Christ!

These types of areas are significant to a lost world that watches our every move. Let us not dishonor people by constantly disrespecting their boundaries.

We live for the sake of others which means I must honor their needs, their boundaries, and their processes.

In addition, this type of behavior is not what we want to be known for, but it can quickly become a defining character trait to others when they think of us.

“She’s always late…” “She listens but does it regardless…” “I’ve told her a hundred times, but she won’t listen…”

Do all things unto the Lord, friends, never taking shortcuts when it comes to integrity and honor.

It can destroy our witness and stall out our destiny.

Stay honest. Stay true.

Don’t become known as someone who is always pushing boundaries.

Be known as someone who honors them.