Saturday, October 3, 2026

Over this past week, we’ve been reminded how boundaries bring peace to challenging relationships. We don’t have to cave to a difficult person, nor do we need to become a controller. Scripture reminds us that setting boundaries is something even Jesus needed to do, and Barb shared practical tools to help us in the process. Nehemiah 4 gives us a front-row seat to these tools in action:

• Tool 1: Pray First – Prayer is your willingness to ask God for help.
• Tool 2: Guard Your Heart – Guard your heart instead of weaponizing your words.
• Tool 3: Add More Support – Place people in your life that will support you.
• Tool 4: Stay Ready – By getting into God’s Word.

Remember, you are made in the image of God. You are worth protecting. You are worthy of dignity and respect. You matter! 

So as you reflect on everything you've learned this week, consider which tool you need to implement first as you navigate a relationship that could use healthy boundaries. What will that look like, and what is one practical step you can take today?

Remember: you can love people and still have limits!

Prayer: 
Lord, thank you for your love and the gentle reminders that boundaries make relationships better. Help me use the tools that were shared to draw closer to you and be prepared when difficult relationships occur. Help me to remember to come to you in prayer before all things, and guard my heart so I don’t weaponize my words. Although difficult relationships often leave me feeling lonely, help me remember to surround myself with supportive individuals and stay ready by putting on your armor rather than trying to fight under my own strength. Thank you Lord for your love and care. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 4:15
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

Written by Kelly Pagel, Curriculum Coordinator & Director of Groups & Outreach - South Toledo CedarCreek Church