12.11.21 You are not called to be a doormat, nor am I

Yes, we are called to love even our enemies.

Yes, we are called to forgive those who hurt us.

But Jesus does not tell us we need to keep toxic people close.

Boundaries are crucial for these situations. And just in case you have felt this way, creating boundaries is not a mean thing to do.

Awkward, maybe, but not mean.

In fact, boundaries may be a necessary part in guarding our heart, which is also what we are called to do.

And in some cases, we really do need to remove ourselves from certain people and places.

I know you might be thinking that you could be that one person to change them, or the one person who helps them see Jesus.

And maybe that’s true, but it may have to be done from a distance. Or maybe at a later time when they are in a healthier place.

Or it may not be your role at all.

We can forgive them while also not continuing to do life with them close.

We can pray for them, and surrender them to the Lord.

There are some people that just simply won’t stay in our life forever.

That’s okay.

And you are going to be okay without them.

But remember, you aren’t a doormat.

You are a son or daughter of the King.

~Kelli Bachara, The Unraveling Blog