THE GOLDEN RULE

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.” Matthew 7:12

     The first sentence of this verse is also known as “The Golden Rule”.  We’re all for this teaching, treating others the way we want to be treated.  But what about acting that out with folks who are divisive and mean spirited?  What about treating people favorably even when they don’t reciprocate?  What then?

     God loves all those he created.  We are to do likewise.  It is a progressive thing.  We don’t just wake up one morning and suddenly become in love with everyone we meet.   We have to submit to an attitude adjustment and it needs to be ongoing.  We’re not always going to feel like being nice to some people.  It’s not an emotional thing.  Christ allowed the love of the Father to flow from his words and his actions.  It was second nature to him and it can become second nature to us as well.  The overused acronym ‘WWJD?’ is actually very appropriate if you think about it.  Since we are to love not only our brethren, but also those outside the faith, there is no better source regarding how to act than Jesus Christ himself.  What would Jesus do?  What would he say in this or that situation?  How would he deal with life in this day and age? 

     A French Proverb when translated into English says something we’ve all heard before:  “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”  There is nothing new under the sun.  What we deal with today is essentially the same as that which Jesus dealt with 2000 years ago, minus the technology. Lead a life based on Christ’s teachings and set a powerful example for all those you meet.  Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

NOTE:  The NEW LIVING TRANSLATION; Publisher:  Tyndale House.