SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1062

“Border Security”

A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls. (Proverbs 25:28)

Our nation’s border security is in the forefront of the news lately with our government officials at an impasse regarding the proposed border wall along our southern border.

God’s Word has much to say about border security and walled cities were the norm in those days. Jericho fell when its walls were destroyed through divine intervention and Nehemiah and his team sacrificed much to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem despite fierce opposition. These all have to do with physical border security whether at the city or national level—but what about at our personal level as individuals and family units?

We may be in this world as citizens of a particular nation, but as Christians, saved by Jesus and born again by the Holy Spirit, we are first and foremost citizens of heaven. Unfortunately, far too many of us have allowed our spiritual walls to be breached and compromised by the sin of this world. For many…walk as enemies of the cross of Christ…with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ… (Philippians 3:18-20)

To be a Christian in this world but not of it requires spiritual self-control. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. (John 17:16)

This self-control comes from boundaries to effectively guard our hearts. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. (Proverbs 4:23)

We need to set boundaries in relationships. Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals; But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. (1 Corinthians 15:33; 1 Corinthians 5:11)

Place boundaries with relationships with non-spousal members of the opposite sex at work, in your neighborhood, even at church. Avoid being alone with them.

Place boundaries with respect to entertainment and recreation. We go to great lengths to secure our homes with alarm systems and locks yet we allow the walls to be breached with the internet and cable sewer pipe. Guard your heart and the hearts of family members with appropriate filters and the self-control to say ‘No’ to compromise with the world.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

God’s Word exhorts us to be holy and perfect and if we are truly seeking first His kingdom and righteousness we will build walls and set the necessary boundaries to keep us in the center of His perfect will. … You shall be holy, for I am holy; You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect; But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness… (1 Peter 1:16; Matthew 5:48; 6:33)