Benefits Of Boundaries

. . . having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.

Ephesians 1:5

In Knowledge of the Holy, A. W. Tozer illustrates freedom and boundaries: an ocean liner leaves New York bound for England, piloted by a captain and crew who will not be taken off course. The passengers are free to roam the giant boat and do whatever they like—within the confines of the ship. They exercise their freedoms while all the time being moved toward an ultimate destination.

God’s adoption of Christians into His family reflects the same two dynamics: freedom of movement within safe boundaries, while moving toward an ultimate destination. The word predestination in Scripture has the idea of boundaries in its meaning. When God predestined us to adoption as His children, He set boundaries around us that gradually conform us to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). Like children, we may chafe at times against the boundaries of our spiritual family, but they are for our good. Think how much safer you feel now than when you were lost and without hope in the world (Ephesians 2:12).

God’s boundaries tell us we are on His ship, heading for a heavenly port. Without boundaries, we would be lost forever.