How can Christians set healthy boundaries with toxic parents while honoring biblical teachings?
Boundaries with toxic parents are vital for emotional and spiritual well-being, while still aligning with biblical principles like honoring parents (Exodus 20:12). They help maintain respect while ensuring relationships are healthy and God-honoring.
Navigating relationships with toxic parents can be emotionally and spiritually challenging. As Christians, we are called to honor our parents (Exodus 20:12), but what does that look like when the relationship becomes harmful? Setting boundaries is an essential step in fostering healthier interactions while maintaining respect. These boundaries can protect your well-being and reflect God’s love, even in difficult circumstances.
Have you had to set boundaries with a parent or loved one? How did you navigate balancing respect with self-care?
Hmmm I’d spent a month in a Christian psychiatric facility (founded by Steve Arteburn) and it was time to confront kindly and humbly with my parents. We were taught how to do this but it was scary and I thought it would do no good.
I’m not sure that my parents even cared about my deep depression, trauma and PTSD. They certainly didn’t fathom my feelings. My prayer was that my parents would have a glimpse into my struggles.
I think we can still respect our parents for being the parent while engaging our boundaries. One Christmas this backfired on me and it left me very upset with them. But I could not back down.
What is even harder is that my parents are Christians. It took them many years to accept my boundaries and see that it made me a better woman. Forgiving them was the second hardest thing I’ve ever done. But forgiving them was paramount to my own growth in Christ and as their daughter.
Love them from a distance. It depends how toxic they are. If they are physically abusive staying away from them is the only safe way to deal with them.
