Being Intentional

The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely, I have a delightful inheritance. Psalms 16:6

Oceans are vast and something to behold, yet they still have boundaries. Why?  They are divided into boundaries for practical reasons, although they are all connected as one global ocean. The boundaries are primarily for navigation, economic reasons and others, rather than natural divisions. The boundaries are used to reference specific regions for mapping and definition.  

I am learning that as a Christian setting boundaries is a good way to stay close to Jesus because he taught us by example from his own life on earth. Although this is a challenging area, Genesis reveals a purposeful, intentional God assigning each of his creations distinct boundaries by specifying their roles and responsibilities on earth. Boundaries communicate a standard of acceptable behaviors required to live the purposeful lives God intends for us.

We all encounter various boundaries in our lives.  Philippians 4:8 gives us guidance on how to set boundaries regarding our thoughts.  When we do not proactively manage our thoughts, our minds become the primary target for discouragement, depression and even anxiety. Another area is displayed in our reactions especially during such divisive times as now, social media and real life play a major role, James 1:19 reminds us to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry.  Helping others is another area – there are times when we should ask the other person to take the first step depending on the situation and we stay out of their boat and give a hand when necessary. Time is another area. There is a time and season for every activity under the sun as the book of Ecclesiastes reminds us. As I read scripture I see that God’s focus is not on speed but completion, Hebrews 12:1 explains that endurance is reserved for long distance runs, not short-term sprints.

With priority boundaries, Jesus prioritized and glorified the Father through Lazarus” death. Like Mary, we are called to petition God on our knees before we busy ourselves using our hands and feet like Martha. The heart, soul and mind are vulnerable entry points too that must be protected. They comprise our inner being that direct our beliefs, thoughts and actions.  Proverbs 4:23 instructs us to limit engaging in actions and with people that threaten our identity in God. We are also reminded that our physical bodies are an area of attention. As we invite the Holy Spirit, he will teach us on how we can be protected from dangerous guests in a world that keeps pushing us to say “yes” to things that don’t bring glory to God.

I learned recently, that in baseball, a home run (HR) is scored when the ball is hit in such a way that the batter is able to circle the bases and reach by touching all four bases in one play. Each day is an opportunity for us to recognize that God has good things in store for our lives. His mercies don’t run out!

Pray your response to the Lord personally, meaningfully and genuinely!

Reflection: How would your spiritual life change if you stopped trying to define God and instead learn to stand in awe of Him?

How would you tell if you are in a pleasant place with reference to Psalm 16:6?