Articles
Matthew 7:12
“Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV).
In what is coined “The Golden Rule,” Jesus says “whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them...” (Matthew 7:12). This passage shows us how we “love our neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). This love involves action—doing. It is not what we restrain ourselves from doing to others, but we “do also to” others what we would “want men to do to you.” This is a transformational principle. What a powerful motto! Note what it might look like in...
Our families. We speak to each other respectfully and use only endearing terms for one another rather than speaking rudely with injurious words. We help each other when work is to be done around the home rather than lazily sitting as others work independently. We touch each other with warm affection and never with rough violence. We listen intently when others are talking and communicate with interest rather than ignoring others and acting more interested in our technological devices. We set an example.
Our schools. We listen respectfully to teachers, principals and others in authority rather than selfishly talking while others are talking. We use words that show we value our schoolmates rather than tearing them down with mockery. We try our best in every subject, every extracurricular activity, every task rather than only giving a half-hearted effort. We build up our classmates, not bullying them. As teachers and administrators, we treat every child with kindness trying to walk a mile in their shoes.
Our neighborhood. We quietly mind our own business and keep our homes tidy rather than being a nosy, noisy nuisance to our neighbors. If the moving truck pulls up next door, we offer to help unpack and unload to start off on the right foot with our neighbors. When a volunteer effort is needed for a neighborhood project we put our names on the volunteer list to help out one another. We rejoice in our neighbors’ successes rather than coveting what they might have that we do not.
Our churches. We look for the positives in others and are careful in wording constructive criticism. We look to serve when we hear of parents with newborns, brothers and sisters recovering from surgery or widows or shut-ins in need of a visit or meal. We volunteer when a job needs filled rather than waiting for others to do it. We assemble to encourage and praise the efforts made by elders, deacons, preachers, worship leaders, teachers and members. We forgive rather than hold grudges.
Are you ready to transform yourself so you can transform the world? Start with the Golden Rule.
