Observing The Boundaries

         

          I received a phone call yesterday from a friend I haven’t seen in years.  She was near tears as she shared with me the heaviness on her heart.  Her grandchildren, just “of age” are deep into the use of drugs, living lives of darkness.  Her granddaughter is even in the hospital as of this writing due to an overdose.  At the moment there is not even any assurance of her survival.  Her own daughter dabbled in the dark side of life and while she wasn’t oblivious to it, she didn't interfere a great deal.  As she sees the cycle repeating, she’s devastated with what she’s witness to for another generation.

            We are living in a world where children are given more and more freedom.  They are encouraged to test and push their boundaries; to experience “their world.”  This often includes giving in to the vile, dark temptations they encounter, as well.  When boundaries are not in place, our children are easily swayed into trying anything new and different in an effort to fit in.  Even in families where fixed boundaries are enforced, situations occur when young people are pulled into bad environments and then have a heavy price to pay.

Creating boundaries begins early in life.  I admit, I find myself getting really frustrated when small children are left unattended, free to “experience” their surroundings no matter where they are, while mom or dad are oblivious to what their child is doing.  As parents we are responsible for our children while they are in our home and when they are in someone else’s home or other establishment.  Our teaching is what will enable them to become mature, productive adults.

            Our Lord and Creator feels the same about us.  God watches over us every moment of the day.  He guides us if we will listen for his voice.  He teaches, if we are willing to search his Word and stay in communication with Him.  He’s given us boundaries to follow, but we have to choose to obey, much like our own children. 

            When we choose to ignore the guidance of God, there is a price to pay.  Just like my friend’s granddaughter who chose to ignore the consequences of taking drugs and ending up in the hospital, our disobedience can create a situation that leaves our minds, spirits, relationships, and lives in total disarray.  Our learning and understanding of right and wrong will keep our decisions focused on what God wants us to do.

            When we are able to recognize God’s will in our lives on a daily basis and make decisions based on God’s Word, we will find ourselves getting ready for the Kingdom.  We are living in the end times.  The signs are all around.  We need only open our eyes to see. 

            Our children learn by example.  When they ask questions, do you give quick answers to placate and then move on to something else?  Often how we talk to our children is also the way we “talk” to the Lord.  “Hurry up, I’ve got stuff to do!”  This has a great impact on our relationship with them.  It’s vital for our children to know we are listening to their concerns and questions given the world we live in.

So I challenge you to consider how you listen to God’s voice for guidance and His boundaries.  Are your prayers quick and to the point before rushing off to something new?  Or do you spend quiet time to allow God’s “voice” to enter your heart and mind?  Your answer to that question will likely define your relationship with Him.