Dear beloved community,
In our journey through life and faith, there are moments when the scriptures speak to us with renewed clarity and urgency. Today, I feel called to share with you a profound truth that resonates at the core of our Christian walk: the principle of doing unto others as we would have them do unto us.
Why did Jesus emphasize this Golden Rule? It’s a reflection of the very nature of God’s generosity towards us. “Your Father gives good and advantageous things to those who keep on asking Him!” This divine principle is not just a suggestion; it is the very essence of how we are to live with one another.
Let’s delve deeper into the Word of God, specifically looking at Matthew 7:11-12. These verses illuminate the connection between God’s goodness to us and our behavior towards others. The passage begins by acknowledging our capacity to give good gifts, despite our imperfections. If we, with our flaws, can act with kindness, imagine how much more our perfect Father in heaven showers us with good things.
Therefore, understanding the generosity of God compels us to act similarly towards others. This isn’t a simple moral guideline; it’s a calling that aligns our actions with the character of God. When we live by this rule, we affirm our belief in His goodness and generosity.
However, there’s a flip side. Not living by this golden principle is a declaration of disbelief in what Jesus teaches. It’s as if our actions scream, “We don’t believe!”
The entire passage Jesus was expounding upon sheds light on this principle. From Matthew 7:7-14, Jesus teaches us about the nature of asking and receiving, illustrating God’s readiness to answer our calls for help. He contrasts the narrow gate, symbolizing obedience and adherence to God’s Word, with the broad way that leads to destruction, symbolizing disobedience.
So, what path will we choose? Will we enter through the narrow gate by living out the Word of God in our daily actions, or will we choose the broad way, filled with disobedience and self-direction?
The message is clear: many might argue against the Golden Rule, suggesting it’s unrealistic or unnecessary. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to be the bold few who live by the Word of God, demonstrating our faith through our actions.
What do our actions say about our belief in Jesus and His teachings? This is a question I leave for you to ponder. As for me, I choose to walk through the narrow gate, living a life that reflects God’s generosity and love.
Be blessed, my brothers and sisters,
Pastor Coney Woodman
