Let's Change the Narrative on Boundaries

“But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ.”

(Ephesians 4:15, NKJV)

In a world overflowing with self-help trends and catchy “life coaching” phrases, the word boundaries has been tossed around so much that it often loses its true meaning. Healthy limits are important, but biblical love is never about building emotional walls so high that no one can reach us.

God’s love has no boundaries in the sense of cutting people off to protect ourselves from discomfort. Instead, His love is marked by respect, honor, and truth.

Let's try and substitute 'boundaries' for truth.

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:4–8, NKJV)

Walls of suspicion and resentment only breed disconnection, but respect and truth bring life into lasting relationships:

“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.” (Romans 12:10, NKJV)

Truth is a gift when it is spoken with gentleness. It’s how God calls us to help each other grow:

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1, NKJV)

Even righteous anger must be handled in God’s way:

“Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. (Ephesians 4:26–27, NKJV)

When people can receive truth in love, change is possible. But if they reject it, you can release them without bitterness. Jesus told His disciples:

“And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet.” (Matthew 10:14, NKJV)

Our part is to love, speak truth, and respect others — the rest is in God’s hands.

Verses for Meditation

“But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15, NKJV)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:4–8, NKJV)

“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.” (Romans 12:10, NKJV)

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1, NKJV)

“And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet.” (Matthew 10:14, NKJV)

Questions for Journaling & Introspection

1. Have I ever used “boundaries” as a reason to avoid uncomfortable but necessary truth?

2. How can I speak truth in love without building emotional or dividing walls?

3. What is one relationship in my life that needs more respect and less suspicion?

4. How do I handle rejection when my message is not received?

Main Goal Today

Speak truth in love, with respect, and without fear of how it will be received.

Closing Prayer

Abba Father,
Thank You for showing me the perfect example of love through Jesus Christ. Teach me to speak truth in love, even when it’s hard. Help me to respect others as You command, to handle anger in a godly way, and to release those who will not receive Your truth. Keep my heart free from bitterness and my words filled with grace. Let my relationships reflect Your honor, Your kindness, and Your truth.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

be careful that in building boundaries, you don’t build walls so high that you shut yourself out from the very blessings God wants to give you. As with all things in the true believer's life, pray for wisdom, understanding, and discernment first.