Limitations - Part Two

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Know Your Limits

Often when we discover we’re somehow limited, or limits are placed upon us by others, it carries a negative reaction. From early childhood there is evidence that no toddler wants to be told “no, or that’s enough” when it comes to something they want. However, there are some limits that we should heed, as they serve as our protection. That’s why it’s important to know your limits.

For example: how many agree that the “speed limit” is a good idea? I can imagine the kind of danger we’d have on the roadways if everyone were allowed to drive as they see fit. It’s also helpful to know your credit limit. This allows you to make wise decisions when purchasing a home or automobile without over extending your budget. On a personal level, we should know our time limits, so we can keep our commitments. Speaking of commitments, these too should be limited. This way we won’t take on more than we can handle at a time.

Having a physical injury certainly helps a person realize their limitations. For me, it’s a broken right arm and wrist that reminds me every minute of what I can’t do. This leaves me reliant on my family and friends-something that has been hard for me, as I am extremely independent in nature. Having said that, I still must point out that of all the “limits” you should be aware of, number one on the list is “knowing when you can’t do IT by yourself and when to ask for help!”

Whatever “it” is…it could be anything from asking others to help because you’re moving - to please help me pray through this situation. Asking for help, especially from the Body of Christ, is what this Christian life is all about. God never intended for any of us to go it alone. Just look at this picture of what Paul admonishes the Church to be like:  If this is what you and I are to be as Christians, as we “imitate Christ”, then I shouldn’t mind asking for help. Instead, I will know my limitations and understand that no one person was called to stand alone, but instead to stand united with others on God’s Word.

Phil. 2:1-4 “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Read also Acts 4:32-35)

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