The Golden Rule

 

Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12) This command of Christ has been given the nickname, “The Golden Rule”. As Jesus stated, this command sums up how man is to interact with one another. When we are faithfully following this command, we will not inflict harm upon another because we would not want that ourselves.

Often, we look at the golden rule and stop at the refusal to inflict harm to another. However, the teaching of Christ goes beyond the refrain of harm. For example, if my neighbor’s home is broken into and his material possessions are stolen or ruined, it would be easy to think that because I was not the one who inflicted the harm, I have no role to play in my neighbor’s misfortune.

However, the absence of evil is not always good. I may not have inflicted harm upon my neighbor, but I may not have done any good either. If I am to truly treat my neighbor as I would want to be treated, then I would seek to help him recover any way possible. Therefore, following the golden rule is not just refusing to do evil, but it is also seeking out of opportunity to do good for others.

Paul made this point to the Galatians. He wrote, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10).

If we dive a little deeper into the golden rule, we will soon discover that not everyone wants to be treated in the same manner. For example, some are independent and like to perform tasks without assistance. Others, however, enjoy the help and company of others while performing various duties.

If we are to keep the golden rule as Christ commanded, we do well to place it on this level also. That is, we take the time to learn how the other person prefers to be treated. Keeping in mind, we desire the other person to learn the same information about ourselves.

The golden rule has stood the test of time. No matter the age we live in, treating others as we would desire to be treated will never go out of style. It will never be outlawed nor frowned upon. When we take the time to learn how another individual desires to be treated, we do good for them, and we never inflict harm upon them, then we will be acting in accordance with God’s will. We will be successful keepers of the golden rule.

God Bless each of you,

Eric Hicks