Boundaries

When to Say YES              When to Say NO

Is your life out of control?
Do people take advantage of you?
Do you have trouble saying no?
Are you disappointed with God because of unanswered prayers ?

Having clear boundaries is essential to a healthy, balanced lifestyle. A boundary is a personal property line that marks those things for which we are responsible. In other words, boundaries define who we are and who we are not.

Boundaries impact all areas of our lives:

Physical boundaries help us determine who may touch us and under what circumstances.

Mental boundaries give us the freedom to have our own thoughts and opinions.

Emotional boundaries help us to deal with our own emotions and disengage from the harmful, manipulative emotions of others.

Spiritual boundaries help us to distinguish God's will from our own and give us renewed awe for our Creator.

Often, Christians focus so much on being loving and unselfish that they forget their own limits and limitations. When confronted with their lack of boundaries, they ask.

• Can I set limits and still be a loving person?
  
• What are legitimate boundaries?
  
• What if someone is upset or hurt by my boundaries?
  
• How do I answer someone who wants my time, love, energy or money?
  
• Aren't boundaries selfish?
  
• Why do I feel guilty or afraid when I consider setting boundaries?

This teaching is on Thursday nights in conjunction with our New Hope 12 Step Program.
It is a 9 week course Call the church office (459-2248) to leave your name and phone number.
Time is 7:00-8:30PM. Child Care is provided.