Limits
The Bible teaches us that we are finite. We are limited. We are creatures with limits who receive into our lives the infinite (unlimited) God. We are created in the image of God and are to be filled with the boundless love of God. The infinite comes to reside in the finite.
Our most basic temptation is to throw off the limits. The snake, in the Garden of Eden, said to Eve, "You will be like God." You will no longer have limits.
How are you doing with limits today?
Do you struggle against the limits of space and time? (You cannot be at the same place at the same time.)
"I never have enough time." "There are not enough hours in the day." "There is a traffic jam, and I have to be some place." "I do not have time to wait." "I need more room."
Do you struggle against the limits of circumstances? Do you struggle against the limits of relationships? Do you struggle against the limits of your gifts and abilities?
"I cannot stand driving this old car." "I don't think I can live without a car any longer." "I'm not going to put up with this job anymore." "I can't deal with these children." "Why can't my spouse see it my way?" "Why can't I do the things he does?" "Why can't I have the spiritual gifts she has?"
Some limits are God given. Other limits are of our own making or the making of others. Some limits are unjust and must be witnessed against. God will use all limits for our good, if we let God do so.
Key Verse: I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11- 13 / NRSV)
My spouse's desires put a limit to my selfishness. Thank you Lord!
My children's needs put a limit on my living for myself. Thank you Lord!
Remembering the Sabbath Day to keep it holy, puts a limit on my workaholic ways. Thanks be to God!
Tithing puts a limit on my financial excesses and reminds me who is Lord. Thanks be to God!
The discipline of daily prayer limits my thoughts and perceptions from going any direction I desire. Thanks be to God!
Thank you Lord that through the limitations of sickness, when I was bedridden, I learned ____________________.
Thank you Lord that when I did not know where the next meal was coming from _____________________.
Thank you Lord that when I was left on my own _________________.
Thank you Lord that when circumstances did not go the way I desired ________________.
Thank you Lord that when my spouse refused to cooperate with what I wanted to do __________________.
Thank you Lord that when I was not able to do _________________.
Thank you Lord that when I had to wait in that long line ________________.
Thank you Lord that when I could not make that person understand ________________.
Thank you Lord that when my loved one died ________________.
Thank you Lord ______________.
Thank you Lord for limits!