Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. Galatians 6:7 ESV
You know the moment: you walked away from conversation with someone you’re close to, thinking, “That didn’t feel okay.”
Danica’s aging mom was in pain, and her harsh words often cut deep. One day, Danica said, “Mom, I love you—but I can’t keep coming over to care for you if you speak to me like this.” Just days later, her mom’s voice had softened. Kindness had replaced the criticism.
Discomfort with the way another is treating you is often your heart’s way of saying: You need a boundary here. Boundaries might sound cold, but they’re a beautiful part of God’s design. From the beginning, God set boundaries in creation: between land and sea (Job 38:10–11), sky and earth. These limits make the world safe and full of wonder. But when the sea crosses its boundary in a tsunami, chaos follows.
It’s the same in our relationships. When God tells us in scripture to “guard our hearts,” that extends to our hearts in harmful relationships (Proverbs 4:23). Scripture also says that “ … whatever one sows, that will he also reap” (Galatians 6:7 ESV). When someone treats others in an ungodly way, the natural consequence of that is increased relational distance by others. But when someone proves trustworthy, we draw closer.
When someone pushes past what feels respectful, it’s alright to say, “That’s not okay with me.” Jesus said, “Let your yes be yes and your no, no” (Matthew 5:37). Setting a personal boundary doesn’t mean we reject others. Boundaries are gifts that teach us what’s healthy, helping us flourish.
So today, ask: Where do I need to speak up, step back, or draw closer?
