REAPPLYING THE GOLDEN RULE

"Do unto others as you would have then do unto you." I doubt that there is another moral or ethical code as well known or commonplace as the golden rule. When applying the golden rule, we try to treat people kindly because we appreciate kindness ourselves and love others because we like it when other people love us. But is there a difference kindness and love?

Absolutely. When thinking about how we ought to treat others it is easy to forsake difficult conversations that might be rooted in love for merely being kind and keeping things comfortable. The truth is, kindness alone lacks the depth and commitment required to truly love somebody and help them grow. Difficult conversations are not easy for anybody to have. How can we be better about loving people and sharing Christ with people we care about?

The motivation for having these important, life changing, difficult conversations about faith and what really matters comes from putting ourselves in the shoes of others. For just one second, imagine yourself apart from Christ, lacking hope, purpose and desperate for a change in your life. Would you want somebody to share the message of God's love with you?

Think about this question when you're having a tough time talking about your faith with others. Let the golden rule guide not only your kindness but your love as well.

Last edited ddb 1/23/13