“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12 ESV)
At the church I serve, the Praise & Worship Center, we are in a transitional period. We are pursuing a turn-a-round goal. We seem to have reached a plateau . . . a stagnant stage of church development. Historically, this great church was a dynamic, spiritually vibrant leader in the Christian community. But, like the saints at Ephesus, something needs to occur that will stir the Pentecostal fire and recapture the vibrancy of yesteryear, but will transport that zeal into the here and now. We are transitioning!
The challenge in these transitional times is to treat everyone, those who reject change together with those who embrace change, according to our relationships rather than according to our functions in the church. We must be focused on the goal without letting go of the people. The Lord’s instruction from today’s Scripture is a good principle to keep in focus while we chase our dream.
Is it really such a big deal to be nice to others? I believe so. Who knows what difficult issues someone else is dealing with in life? Perhaps an attitude that kindly considers “another’s burdens are just as difficult and important as mine” might be in order. Remember, it isn’t just a “golden” principle. It fulfills all the biblical laws and the prophets’ instructions. It is the rule of Scripture!
When interacting with others: Is it possible that an angry disagreement with their spouse could have occurred just before leaving for work today? Is it possible that the person’s employment has just been terminated? Is it possible that the person might be suffering from some physical aches and pains? What about family or financial worries? Can you think of other considerations?
When we are nice, kind, gentle, and generous, we make a favorable impact on the other person and keep joy alive in ourselves. Isn’t that enough reason to treat others the way we want to be treated?
Dear Father, thank you for loving us like you want to be loved. Empower us to do what Jesus said and thereby obey the rule of Scripture. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in the rule of Scripture,