RTW 2024

So Jacob took an oath before the fearsome God of his father, Isaac, to respect the boundary line.

Genesis 31:53b

“In fact, if the God of my father had not been on my side—the God of Abraham and the fearsome God of Isaac—you would have sent me away empty-handed. But God has seen your abuse and my hard work. That is why he appeared to you last night and rebuked you!”
Genesis 31:42

Where would I be if God was not on my side when I stacked my stones?

I suffered loss, and lots of change, but my spirit is free and joyful.

The men didn’t trust each other, but they were willing to enter in an agreement with the one they did trust as a witness.

God has commanded Jacob to leave. (Genesis 31:3)

Boundaries are beneficial when:

• Unfair treatment has been experienced
• Physical, emotional, and mental distress are experienced
• Financial ruin or destruction has occurred
• Refreshment, restoration, and renewal are needed

Is it Biblical to set boundaries?

I believe boundaries are Biblical if they are set with the right motives. I also believe boundaries can be temporary.

Ask

1. How can I best serve and glorify God?
2. How is this relationship creating unity?
3. Would a boundary line improve #1 and #2? If the answer is yes, then it is likely a “witness pile” might be needed?

Disclaimer: I am not a Biblical counselor, and I am not advising anyone to break covenant. I am speaking from my own personal experience and convictions. Any extreme and life-altering decision should be made exhausting all options, and after prayer, fasting, and Biblical counseling.

Boundaries can be set with only one person agreement, after prayer, fasting, and counseling. Note: Jacob received and obeyed counsel from God, after twenty years of long-suffering.

God, The Bible, and Boundaries

Work through the hard stuff before stacking any stones.