Matthew 7:12: “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law of the Prophets.”
The Law of the Prophets is summarized in Matthew 22:37-40, where Jesus stated we are to love the Lord our God with all that we are – our heart, soul, and mind, strength, possessions, and service. That is the first commandment. The second commandment He said is to love others as we love ourselves. Love for God is the basis for obedience.
What if we lived this way every day? How would our reactions be different? How would our actions be different? How would our outpouring of love unto others be more evident? I ask myself these questions. It seems I am always in a hurry.
The real Golden Rule, Jesus gave in Matthew 7:12 is what I need to put into practice more. I remember things that people have done for me in the past that were unexpected and compassionate and gracious. Here are a few examples of great encouragement and uplift I have been the recipient of:
- Finding a delivered bouquet of flowers at my front door along with a thank you note.
- Receiving an encouraging email when an anticipated conflict I was facing and expecting was about to take place.
- Being brought a meal when our family experienced health issues.
- Receiving a text that I was being prayed for in my trip for work to the east coast, along with the verse from John 14:17 referencing me being “off and running.” The words and verse fit precisely what I needed to be reminded of in my week which helped give me internal strength.
So food for thought – what do you wish others would do for you, that you can do for someone this week at your work, or for a friend, or with a family member? It doesn’t have to be expensive. The thought is what sends the intended message of Matthew 7:12 MSG: “Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.”
Be alert and be aware how God can use living out the golden rule today before others.
Listen to “Proof of Your Love” by King & Country.