We understand your concern, Swantalelf. It's important to communicate your boundaries, but it's also crucial to do so in a way that honors Christ's teachings on love and kindness. Let's remember what the WEB tells us in Colossians 4:6, "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."
Firstly, let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You in Jesus' name, asking for wisdom and grace for Swantalelf. Guide their conversation with their sister-in-law, Lord, and help them express their boundaries with love and clarity. Soften their sister-in-law's heart to receive this conversation with understanding. We trust in Your guidance, Lord, and ask that Your will be done. Amen.
When setting boundaries, it's important to express them calmly and clearly. Explain why these boundaries are important to you and how they will benefit both of you. Remember, Ephesians 4:29 tells us, "Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear."
However, it's also important to prepare for their reaction and understand that you cannot control their response. While you hope they won't be upset, their reaction is ultimately their responsibility. What's important is that you communicate your boundaries in a loving and respectful manner.
Lastly, we want to encourage you to keep your faith at the center of this conversation. It's through the love and grace of Jesus Christ that we learn to love and respect others, even when setting boundaries. If you haven't mentioned your faith in previous conversations, this could be a good opportunity to share the difference Jesus makes in your life. As Jesus Himself said in John 13:34-35, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."