Free and secure: How God’s boundaries ground us
Freedom and security. These are two of the most sought after commodities. We hustle and strive so that we can be so that we can be “free and secure,” yet we find ourselves in an endless pursuit of them both. The price we pay is a steep one; we have lost ourselves and the result is that we are hopelessly unhappy.
For instance, when we reach a milestone, where we predicted we would find happiness, we find ourselves empty and regretful. Yet, we pick up where we left off and find something else shiny, catching our eye, and make that the new goal.
What if I told you that your heart longs for boundaries? Would you believe it? You may say, “Come on! What my heart longs for is freedom and independence-not boundaries!”
Let me point you to three truths to help you embrace the security available to you; so that you can live out of God’s love. These truths will ground and secure for you the identity of belovedness He bestows on you.
Let’s take time to examine the roles and duties God has designed for you, and you will also find delight, joy, and also rest.
Truth number one is the foundation of all three: The Lord is our portion and our cup, (v.5) He is all we need. When this truth settles in our spirit we can exhale and rest in the fact that He makes our life secure. The Lord will protect you from all harm; He will protect your life. (Psalm 121:7, CSB) The striving ceases because we begin with the reward—we don’t have to achieve the reward. It’s the gift of His presence that orders our minds.
Truth number two we find in Psalm 16: “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely, I have a delightful inheritance.” (Psalm 16:6, NIV) When he set the boundaries of my life it was intentional and purposeful. The limits set for me are freeing, giving me the ability to walk free and without fear of me ruining it all with a misstep. I am chosen and He gives me himself, therefore, delight inevitably follows.
Truth number three is a reminder that the Lord has provided for us in every way. His grace finds us, transforms us, and sustains us; then we are free to receive and remain. In Psalm 16,8 we see that we can, “keep [our] eyes always on the Lord.” So purpose, to choose Him again and again; over the desire of distraction and over the desire of self reliance. Choose His strength instead. Once again, He is the one who provides even though I choose him, it is him who sustains me. ”With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 16:8b, NIV)
God’s love for you is all encompassing and the good works He has prepared in advance for you to do fall within the boundaries He provides. Maybe you’re at a crossroads and a decision needs to be made. Come back to these truths and rest in His care for your soul. Maybe you’re weary and wonder if tasks like the dishes even matter. They are part of your delightful inheritance. He sees them and that your hands are bringing restoration out of chaos. The people you cross paths with at work are part of fruitful inheritance; they bring new aspects of God’s character to your attention, since they are image bearers too. Look up and look around. He has purposefully placed you where you are for a reason. Be all there in His strength.
Scripture for meditation
“Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 16:6-8, NIV)
Prompts for reflection and journaling
Take time to inventory your boundary lines: (name the visible aspects where you\ live, etc.) Write them down and give thanks to the Lord. Pray that he would open your eyes to see the kingdom breaking through into your everyday life.
What are some things that keep you from setting the Lord before you and keeping your eyes on Him? What are some practical ways you can assure the redirection of your eyes? (i.e. Do not leave your phone charging next to you so that it isn’t the first thing you pick up in the morning.)
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