I recently got to grab dinner and catch up with one of my best friends. After catching up, I love that we always naturally talk about the deeper things in life, often leading us to explore thought-provoking questions that we can reflect on in the weeks to come. One thought that stood out was the importance of setting healthy boundaries in our lives. How can we create and maintain these boundaries to ensure our relationships are healthy and that we honor ourselves?

While boundaries may look somewhat different for some, setting boundaries is a good practice for us all. Even God, in His perfect wisdom, established boundaries.

He set the earth on its foundations; it can never be moved. You covered it with the deep as with a garment; the waters stood above the mountains.
Psalm 104:5-6

God established a boundary so that the sea would never overtake the earth. Setting boundaries helps us not to become overwhelmed and consumed. Just as the boundary keeps the ocean in its place, our boundaries help protect us from feeling overwhelmed by external pressures and demands. By setting boundaries in our lives, we create a space to maintain an atmosphere of peace.

Do you often find yourself saying ” yes ” when you really should be saying “no”? The desire to please others can sometimes prompt a quick yes. I have been in that place before, and I’m discovering the importance of pausing before responding. Making time to pause is something I want to focus on more.

Consider if there’s a relationship in your life that needs space. It’s perfectly acceptable to create distance to restore or establish healthier relationships. Boundaries are not meant to avoid connection but to build greater trust.

Do you often find yourself feeling overwhelmed by too much going on in your daily life? If so, it may be time to create some boundaries to help reduce distractions and create more space for clarity. When our days become cluttered with interruptions, it can help to set some limits.

Setting boundaries is a great learning opportunity for me. The more I practice setting healthy boundaries, the more centered I become. I can fix my eyes above rather than what’s before me.

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is a wellspring for your life.
Proverbs 4:23

What does it mean to guard your heart? Here are some inspiring steps to help you in this journey.

First, take a moment to pause. Reflecting and praying before making decisions is a powerful way to protect your heart.

Second, seek divine guidance from God.

Finally, being quick to listen can profoundly shape your boundaries. Trust your heart, and above all, listen to the Holy Spirit.

I desire to establish better boundaries in my everyday life, and for me, that means being brave. What about you?