Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #22 — Balanced Connections

Picture: Counsel #22 — Balanced Connections CR 61.1

Boundaries are essential in any type of relationship, but it’s extremely important if you want your friendships to flourish. The importance and relevance of boundaries can be seen since the beginning of time, with God setting boundaries between night and day, and land and water. CR 61.2

This concept of boundaries is further emphasized as seen in the Ten Commandments, which provide moral guidelines for human behavior; boundaries for humanity to acknowledge and respect. The context of “boundaries” in today’s society looks a little different yet holds the same value. When considering your friendships, setting boundaries around time management can help prevent one friend from dominating the other’s schedule. Saying, “I can’t talk now, but let’s catch up tomorrow,” maintains balance and avoids resentment. Similarly, setting financial and emotional boundaries, such as not lending money or stating that you need to process a certain trauma alone, reflects the importance of maintaining healthy, God-honoring relationships. Always remember that setting boundaries is not an insensitive or selfish thing to do. They are essential for personal, spiritual, and emotional growth.^[40] CR 61.3

“All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Matthew 5:37 NIV CR 61.4

“In Christ a greater example has been given us than that of either patriarch or apostle.” Ellen White in In Heavenly Places, p. 296 CR 61.5

Reflect: Do you set clear boundaries in your friendships? CR 61.6