12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. ~ Matthew 7:12NIV
We’re taught the Golden Rule from an early age. It’s even taught outside the Church by non-believers. It’s a cliché that is often overused yet is rarely put into practice. It’s very easy to see how people treat us, but it’s often difficult to see how we treat people.
Solomon tells us to cast our bread upon the waters so that in many days it will return to us (Ecclesiastes 11:1). Paul put it this way: what we sow, that we shall also reap (Galatians 6:7). In other words, what you are lacking from other people, do that to them. If you feel that you’re lacking love from your spouse, give them more love. If you feel you’re lacking respect from someone, give them more respect. Do to them exactly what you want them to do to you. And as you do that, place their name before God with your request. Ask God to move in their life and use what you’re doing as a light for them.
It may not change them overnight, but through faith, prayer, and perseverance by the grace of God, they will change. So, stay encouraged and remain diligent. The old saying is true: change always starts with you.
Dear LORD, please help me to be the change I want to see in this world. Help me to treat others how I would like them to treat me. Help me to turn the other cheek and not hold their shortcomings against them as I pray they don’t hold my shortcomings against me. Teach me to be the light in this dark world and strengthen me for the path You have set before me. Please fill me with Your love, mercy, and grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.