Longing to Belong Chapter 11: Establishing Godly Boundaries

From Chapter 11 of Longing to Belong

As we have discussed in the last several chapters, conflict or Storming is natural and inevitable in all of our relationships and is actually important to refine Who we are, Whose we are, and What God has called us to do. However, to navigate safely through the stages of our life and ministry together, we must have clearly articulated boundaries that will protect the integrity and function of our relationships and the mission we are called to fulfill.
Functional Boundaries
In Chapter Three, we discussed the distinction and need for functional and relational boundaries to guard the integrity of both our work and relationships. Every group, even a family, needs to understand the expectations of their role and function within the group. Functional boundaries provide this kind of clarity. Therefore, every group should develop the functional boundaries needed to clarify what is expected of each member.
For a family, functional boundaries might include lists of chores, curfews, or rules regarding use of electronics. In a committee, bylaws and books of order provide the boundaries needed to clarify who functions in what ways. In a classroom, functional boundaries might include class rules or a course syllabus. And for a staff, ministry or job descriptions and employee handbooks articulate the expectations of both the staff and supportive structures that will better ensure how the individuals and group fulfill their mission together.