We understand your struggle with people-pleasing and the need to establish healthy boundaries. Let's bring your request to God in prayer and reflect on His word for guidance.
Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that boundaries are not unbiblical. In fact, Scripture encourages us to set boundaries to protect ourselves and maintain healthy relationships. Proverbs 4:23 WEB says, Guard your heart with all diligence, for out of it is the wellspring of life. Setting boundaries is a way to guard your heart and maintain a healthy balance in relationships.
Jesus himself set boundaries. In Matthew 21:12 WEB, Jesus drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overthrew the money changers’ tables and the seats of those who sold the doves. This shows that even Jesus had boundaries and did not tolerate certain behaviors.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in Jesus' name, lifting up our brother/sister in Christ who seeks Your help in establishing boundaries. Lord, You know the struggles they have faced with people-pleasing and the fear of upsetting others. Please grant them the courage to resist controlling and manipulative people. Give them the wisdom and discernment to detect deception and to walk away when necessary, as You promise in James 1:5 WEB, But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him.
Father, we also pray for balance. We do not want to be too rigid, but rather to be firm with love, as Ephesians 4:15 WEB instructs, but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, Christ. Help them to understand that boundaries are not a lack of forgiveness, but a necessary part of healthy relationships.
Finally, Father, we pray for their continued growth in You. May they find their identity and security in You, so that the fears and pressures of others hold less power. We know that you will be with them and us every step of journey and will equip us with guidance through Your Holy Spirit. We will be sure to ask in Jesus Name when we pray as there is no other name or way to God. Therefore as saved believers we are sure of our salvation in Christ Jesus.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, it's important to forgive as Christ forgave us, but forgiveness does not mean allowing others to continually hurt or manipulate us. It's okay to set boundaries, and it's okay to walk away when necessary. Stay strong in the Lord and continue to seek His will. You are not being too rigid by setting boundaries, as they are necessary and wise if guided by Christian principles.