In athletics, we have boundaries that prevent us from crossing the line and breaking the rules. In life, we also have to set boundaries in order to maintain a Christian walk.

I would like to share the following, which was taken from a daily devotional, “The Word for You Today”:

Set clear boundaries for yourself — and keep them!

Wisdom says: (1) Don’t cross the line. The first time you do you tell yourself, “just this once.” But what you don’t know is, you’ve opened a door you may not be able to close.

(2) It’s easier to cross it the second time. The man who slips downstairs while his wife’s sleeping to watch pornography on his computer soon discovers that, like an addict, you have to increase the dosage. Before you know it, you’re driven to seek ever higher states of arousal. Paul writes, “Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey?” (Romans 6:16 NLT).

(3) Eventually the line gets blurred. You keep commuting between what’s right and what’s wrong, thinking, “I can quit any time I want,” and Satan whispers, “Gotcha!”

(4) Finally the line disappears. Like the Prodigal Son, you lose everything. Spiritually, you lose your confidence before God. Personally, you lose your sense of self-worth. Publicly, you lose respect and influence with others.

And “good” things can hurt you, too. A work ethic is a good thing, but lack of balance can make you neglect your family and lose your marriage. Rest and relaxation are good things, but too much time “vegging out” in front of the TV will stunt your spiritual growth. Caution and thoughtfulness are good things, but too much of them will clip the wings of your faith and keep you from rising to fulfill your God-given destiny. So draw a clear line for yourself — and stay on the right side of it!

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 652-652-8477, or email hkeller@comcast.net.