The Golden Rule, Written by my Husband, Mel
But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:27-36
It is truly as the days of Noah today, and the attributes of Satan are visible in most people’s lives. As Christians, we must go against the grain of our cold society, and let the love and light of our Lord Jesus Christ shine through us. If you have bitterness in your heart toward others, I urge you to let the love of Christ melt away the ice on your heart. Even the roots of bitterness are an open door for the devil to have a stronghold in your life. If you have animosity toward someone, let it go, and let the peace of God rule in your heart and mind. Sometimes, it is better not to speak about a person who stirs up hard feelings. Silence is golden, and will help you forgive the person who has offended you. Christ said to pray for, as well as, bless those who curse and persecute you. Praying for the offender will bring a release in your heart.
We have all heard of the golden rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do to you" but how many of us truly obey it? Would you want someone to cheat you out of your money, or lie to you? Would you want someone to deny you a warm place to stay, or a hot meal, if you were in need? Do you desire to have someone give you the cold shoulder in your home or workplace? The answer of course is no. We all want to be loved and showed kindness from those around us. Regardless, of how others treat you, as Christians, we are to show unconditional love toward all, including the unlovely. You may think this is impossible, but with Christ all things are possible. If God's Holy Spirit dwells within you, you have the power to overcome the evil society, and show forth God's attributes. If the church will reflect Christ to the world, we will save many from Hell. Hypocrisy will destroy your testimony, and push people away from Christ. Be real, and let the good fruit of God's Spirit shine forth in your life.
What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. James 2:14-17
No comments:
Post a Comment