Do To Others What You Would Have Them Do To You
LENT 2023 | DAY 24
Matthew 7:9-12 (NIV)
(Irwin Seet, Steward, LCEC)
READ:
Matthew 7:9-12 (NIV)
DAILY REFLECTION:
When I was in Primary 3, my class teacher first introduced the class to the concept of the Golden Rule, which she elaborated to mean: “Do to Others What You Would Have Them Do to You”. She shared with us that while the major religions of the world have different doctrines and teachings, the one common teaching across all religions was the Golden Rule. She taught us that we should always treat people with the concern and kindness that we would like them to show towards us.
In Leviticus 19:33-34, it states that “when a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat him. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” There is a tendency for us to extend kindness to friends and family and to those who can benefit us. Matthew 7:12 does not limit whom we should extend kindness to, but is all inclusive. In other words, we as God’s children, should reflect our Father’s heart and extend kindness and generosity to everyone around us, especially those who are vulnerable and need our help the most.
How can I apply Matthew 7:12 in my life?
1. Be Watchful – I will ask the Holy Spirit to open my eyes to see those around me who are more vulnerable in the community. (Philippians 2:4)
2. Be Caring – I will ask the Father for His heart of compassion to put myself in the other person’s shoes and for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom to understand the feelings and actions of others. (Romans 12:15)
3. Be Understanding – I will recognise that everyone is different and ask the Lord for wisdom to discern if what I would like done for me, is what others would like to be done for them as well, before taking action. (1 Corinthians 10:24)
FAMILY DISCUSSION POINTERS:
1. Reflect on the people around you whom you currently do not extend love, care and show concern to. What changes do you see yourself making after reading Matthew 7:12?
2. Discuss the Parable of The Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37. Why do we tend to only show kindness to certain people and not to everyone we meet?
3. How may you apply Matthew 7:12 in your life?
