- Matthew 22:35–40 - Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
- Matthew 7:12 - Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Jesus said, "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them" (Matt. 7:12). This principle is often called the "Golden Rule." Most people accept that this is a good foundation for healthy relationships. But putting it into practice in daily life is not always easy.
It is easy to love people who treat us well. But what about when people hurt us, disappoint us, or behave in unpleasant ways? Jesus calls us to love people not just when they are lovable, but at all times. We can show loyalty, support, forgiveness, acceptance, and care to others, even if their attitude is not what we desire.
When we treat people the way the Lord wants us to, relationships are strengthened and deepened. However, this kind of love does not come from our own strength. God wants to produce this love in our lives through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Reflection
Ask the Lord today to show you someone to whom you can show love. How can you treat them in a way that reflects His heart?