◄ What Does Matthew 7:12 Mean? ►

"In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

Matthew 7:12(NASB)

Verse of the Day

"Do unto others what you would have them do unto you," is often referred to by both believers and non-believers as 'the golden rule'. It is often considered to be the root of our Christian faith, but this is a misinterpretation of this scripture and a misunderstanding of this biblical passage.

The implication is that this 'golden rule' is the singular foundation upon which the Christian life is built, containing the total truth of God's Word. But this is certainly not the message of salvation and this is not a verse upon which one's entire Christian doctrine should be founded.

The 'golden rule' is only one aspect in the life of a spirit-filled Christian. Although it should be evidenced in the life of all believers who are learning to walk in spirit and truth, 'the golden rule' is only one element of the man or woman who is growing in grace and learning to love as Christ loved us, and gave Himself for us.

This verse is certainly a guiding principle for Christians, and should influence our attitudes and motives as well as our seen and unseen actions. It should be a life-principle that impacts every area of life and is exercised on all with whom we come in contact. However, when it is considered to be the sum total of all biblical truth as is evidenced in many parts of Christendom today, it is to water-down the whole counsel of God, to circumvent the Cross of Christ, and to redefine the truth of God's Word.

Our Christian life should not simply be an absence of what is evil but the presence of that which is good, for the benefit of others and to the glory of God. Let us seek to walk in spirit and truth and to love as Christ loved us so that whatever we do in word or deed, we do all to the glory of God. And may we live in such a way that the life of Christ is reflected in every part of our lives.

My Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray that all that I say and do, may only be that which is honouring to You. May my actions, attitudes, and the innermost motives behind my thoughts and words, be pleasing to You and a reflection of Christ in me. In Jesus' name, AMEN.