by Mark Aites, Preacher
South Point church of Christ, Ohio

“We have committed the Golden Rule to memory; let us now commit it to life.” – Edwin Markham

“I cannot remember a time when the Golden Rule was not my motto and precept, the torch that guided my footsteps.” – James Cash Penney

“To keep the Golden Rule we must put ourselves in other people’s places, but to do that consists in and depends upon picturing ourselves in their places.” – Harry Emerson Fosdick

“The golden rule for every business man is this: ‘Put yourself in your customer’s place.’” Orison Swett Marden

“Practicing the Golden Rule is not a sacrifice; it is an investment.” – author unknown

     Called the Golden Rule because of its value, the Lord said, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12). This has become one of the most quoted Scriptures from the Bible, and rightly so.

     Some having addressed it as “the boomerang effect”, this focuses heavily on a reciprocal affect that we experience through life. If we are not careful, the way we treat others can become the very catalyst for how we ourselves are treated. If you want to be treated with dignity and respect, then you need to treat others the very same way.

     There are three variations of the Golden Rule that man has twisted. “Do unto others as they are likely to do unto you.” “Do unto others as they have done to you.” And, “Do unto others before they do unto you.” Yes, in fairness, even though you practice the Golden Rule, not everyone will respond with the kindness you hope they will manifest. But we should not be looking for a means or way to hurt others just to make ourselves feel justified.

     The very same Master who has taught us to practice the Golden Rule was crucified and hated by man. If you are a follower of Him, even though you practice the Golden Rule, they may seek to hurt you. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matt. 5:11-12).

     Do not allow people to deter you from practicing the Golden Rule. Even Scripture encourages us to follow in the Lord’s steps (1 Pet. 2:21-24). Generally speaking, you will find that your life will be enriched if you do