This week we are continuing the series Boundaries.

  Cloud and Townsend – Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership. Knowing what I am to own and take responsibility for gives me freedom. If I know where my yard begins and ends, I am free to do with it what I like. Taking responsibility for my own life opens up many different options. However, if I do no not own my life, my choices and options become very limited. We let others own us. Think about this…how confusing would it be if someone told you to “guard this property diligently, because I will hold you responsible for what happens here” but they didn’t tell you the boundaries of the property. Three things we must understand:

1. I am responsible “to” you but I am not responsible “for” you. We are responsible to others and for ourselves. Please explain, Pastor. Galatians 6:2 (NKJV) “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Everyone has responsibilities that only he or she can carry. These things are our own particular “load” that we need to take daily responsibility for and work out. Galatians 6:5 (NKJV) “For each one shall bear his own load.” Everyone has responsibilities that only he or she can carry. These things are our own particular “load” that we need to take daily responsibility for and work out. 

2. Boundaries help us keep the good in and the bad out. Boundaries help us to distinguish our property so that we can take care of it. We need to keep things that will nurture us inside our fences and keep things that will harm us outside. Fences protect our hearts. Proverbs 4:23 (NKJV) “Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.” We need to protect our hearts by establishing boundaries or fences…by keeping the good in and the bad out. 

3. Our boundaries or fences need a gate. Many times we have said in this message that our fences, our boundaries, need a gate to keep bad out and to keep good in. Wow, whoever this gate is has to be strong, wise, discerning, and has an important responsibility of managing this process of what is entering and exiting. John 10:7 (NIV) Therefore Jesus said again, "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.” Lordship tells me I have to give ownership of my fences, my boundaries, and my yard to Jesus. He will make sure no one enters who shouldn’t and He allows in what and who needs to come in. Jesus is the Gate of our boundaries.