What can I say? I loved this book!
The first thing that struck me about Beyond Boundaries was how applicable the material is to a variety of situations. In other words, it’s not just for those who are trying to rebuild a relationship after trust has been broken.
It can also apply to …
- Determining whom you should/shouldn’t trust
- Understanding how to navigate a new relationship
- Understanding how to open yourself to the changes you need to make in any relationship
- Understanding how to safely navigate out of an unhealthy relationship
- Understanding how to grieve the loss of a relationship
- Understanding how to become a trustworthy person …
Just to name a few.
I have to admit, although I love John Townsend’s writing, I’ve felt like his classic Boundaries book (that he co-wrote with Henry Cloud) was a bit dry and not as practical as his later writings. Don’t get me wrong. The classic Boundaries book is a great resource for the beginner boundary setter, but Beyond Boundaries is far from “dry.”
Beyond Boundaries is an easy and engrossing read that’s choked full of practical guidance for anyone hoping to improve their relationships and/or relational skills.
In fact, it has so much helpful and practical information, I plan to read it again and again—just so I can integrate it into my thinking and relating. I guess, I think I’m a bit dense when it comes to boundaries! It takes a lot of reminding and rehearsing for it to take hold in my life.
Most of all, I want to encourage you to read this book and pass it on to those in your life that you love. (Well, on second thought, pass it on to your enemies too because I’m sure the benefits will come rolling back your way in no time!)
If you’re interested, here are some of my favorite quotes from the book:
“The reason the perception of moral superiority doesn’t help you is that it prevents growth and great relationship. It inhibits personal growth because growth requires humility.” p. 56
“How do you know if someone has the capacity to comfort? By the degree to which they remain present with you when you grieve. Being present means they don’t try to give you advice, cheer you up, or change the topic.” p. 96
“…People who feel secure can agree with someone else and still be separate from and equal to them.” p. 118
“One of the signs of character is that a person does what it takes to restore a relationship.” p. 193
“Avoid the “good-guy-bad-guy” dynamic … Even if your contributions to the relational problems are less severe, do the work. Work just as hard on yourself as you want her to work on herself. The person who commits the misdemeanor must take this just as seriously as the person who commits the felony.” p. 222
Today’s Post is Linked to –
WORTHY Bible Studies 
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