“Empowering Lessons from Good Boundaries and Goodbyes” is a transformative book by Lysa TerKeurst, renowned for her #1 New York Times bestselling works like Unglued and Forgiving What You Can’t Forget. As I delved into the pages of this life-changing book, I unearthed seven profound lessons that I’m eager to share with you:
- Boundaries are not selfish; they are godly. Love isn’t about losing oneself. God designed us with dignity, worth, and purpose, expecting us to respect and protect those gifts. Boundaries, far from being isolating walls, are protective fences. They don’t hinder love; instead, they act as bridges to love.
- Boundaries are not one-size-fits-all; they are customized. Recognizing that different relationships and situations demand varying levels of boundaries is crucial. Consider factors like the nature of the relationship, trust, safety, responsibility, and growth potential. Flexibility and adaptability are key, coupled with firmness and consistency.
- Boundaries are not easy; they are hard. Setting boundaries can be an uphill battle, especially when faced with resistance, criticism, or guilt. The challenges are real, but the rewards—preserving peace, joy, and sanity—are worth it. Seeking guidance and strength from God becomes essential in this process.
- Boundaries are not enough; they are not everything. While boundaries are necessary, they aren’t the ultimate goal. They are a means to an end, a tool in the toolbox of healthy relationships. Balancing boundaries with communication, compassion, and compromise is crucial for overall relationship well-being.
- Goodbyes are not always bad; they are sometimes good. Recognizing when a relationship is no longer healthy, helpful, or hopeful is crucial. Saying goodbye can be painful, but it can also be liberating—a courageous and wise act of love. It signifies a necessary loss for a greater gain.
- Goodbyes are not final; they are transitional. Saying goodbye doesn’t mean closing doors forever. It’s about leaving room for God to work in His time and way. It’s not the end of the story but the beginning of a new chapter, marked by growth and transformation.
- Goodbyes are not lonely; they are communal. Parting ways doesn’t equate to isolation. Instead, it means being surrounded by a community of people who love, support, and understand us. It’s a connection to a larger community of faith, hope, and love, ensuring we’re embraced by God’s unwavering presence.
These seven lessons, gleaned from “Good Boundaries and Goodbyes,” are not just insights but invitations to embark on a journey of loving others without losing the essence of who you are. I hope these lessons inspire you to pick up this book and explore its transformative wisdom.
