So then, whatever you desire that others would do to and for you, even so do also to and for them….
I was awake for a couple of hours last night, and as I lay in the darkness, the words of Jesus—“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”—came to mind. I thought about them until I fell asleep, and this morning I continued to ponder them. When I opened my Bible and studied this passage along with the surrounding Scriptures, I received new insight—one that connects this teaching to answered prayer.
Prior to the statement about how we treat others, we find an invitation from our Lord Jesus to ask and keep on asking, seek and keep on seeking, and knock and keep on knocking. He also promises that we will receive favorable answers to each request. We will receive, we will find, and doors will be opened (Matthew 7:7–8). He assures us of His goodness and willingness to help us and then makes this statement: So then, whatever you desire that others would do to and for you, even so do also to and for them (Matthew 7:12 AMPC). The phrase “so then” means there is a connection between answered prayer and how we treat other people.
I think we would be astonished at the difference in our lives in every respect if we truly did treat others the way we want to be treated. It certainly would change many things in how we respond to people and how we live our lives. Actually, it would change the world! I have decided to purposely be more focused every day on doing so, and I pray you will join me. That scripture is often called the Golden Rule, but I prefer to call it the “Golden Key” that will unlock and release God’s best in our lives.
Prayer of the Day: Lord, help me treat others as I want to be treated. Fill my heart with kindness, compassion, and love, and let my actions reflect Your goodness each day, amen.
