Setting Boundaries

“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." 2 Corinthians 9:7(N.I.V)

Helping and taking care of others can be extremely tiring and stressful.  As a human being one has to operate within acceptable limits, otherwise you “burn out”. We need to take care of our own basic needs before we can take care of those of others. Even Jesus, who gave much of himself to us, took time out for rest and solitude and being with agreeable friends. He sometimes withdrew from the crowds and their many demands on him (Luke 5:15-16)., and he did not heal everybody that he met. He was not open to manipulation even from his mother and brothers to cause him to veer from his priority: his ministry of delivering salvation (Matthew 12:46-50). His major aim was to please God and not people.

Sometimes the reason we give our services and goods to people and the church is because we need to feel needed, loved, recognized and appreciated. We feel pressured to give because it is expected from us and because we seek something in return. This sometimes leads us to dysfunctional relationships where we tolerate exploitation, mistreatment and irresponsible behavior. Our giving should not be forced but should be out of goodwill, what we are ready and willing to give.

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“He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away”. Raymond Hull.

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