“In everything, treat others as you would want them to treat you, for this fulfills the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12 – NET*)
It’s referred to as ‘The Golden Rule’; treating others the way we would like to be treated. It’s a nice thought and gracious when it is acted out, but what of the times when we don’t receive like treatment in return? If we treat others with patience and loving-kindness, our reward will come from knowing we have done as we have been instructed. Is there ever a situation where we are not to treat others with patience and loving-kindness? Apparently not for if there were Christ would have pointed that out in scripture. No, He only tells us to fulfill the Law of Moses by, essentially, emulating Him. Jesus was and is the epitome of kindness, mercy and grace. It’s only as we become less and He becomes more in our lives that we can begin to put our own feelings and emotions aside and do that which benefits others without concern for ourselves. If we truly believe God will take care of our every need then that knowledge frees us up to reach outward instead of inward. We are to treat others with kindness, mercy and grace as a natural outcropping of our life in Christ. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
* New English Translation
