Read: Matthew 7:12
In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12
Life can be complicated—there is no question about that. Relational and vocational dilemmas abound. We have concerns about our health, our finances, and our children. Much of the time we feel lost and uncertain about what path to take and what direction to go in life. However, while life is complicated, our living doesn’t have to be. Jesus said that to live according to the will of God, all we need to do is treat other people like we would like to be treated. In every decision and difficult circumstance in which we find ourselves, we can simply ask ourselves how we would like to be treated, and act accordingly. If we treat others with the respect, dignity, and compassion we desire, then perhaps we will find a way forward in life that is not so stressful and confusing. This is not being simplistic, because knowing what do and actually doing it can be quite a challenge. However, knowing the right way to live may just be as simple as Jesus suggests. When you find yourself in a difficult situation, ask yourself how you would like to be treated, and respond in kind.
How do you like people to treat you?
Lord, life feels complicated and challenging…and, in truth, there are times when I just feel downright overwhelmed. I realize, however, that I might be making too much of the difficult situations and relationships I find myself in. What if I based all my decisions and actions on how I would like to be treated? What if I fulfilled Your will by simply doing as you ask? Life can be hard, but perhaps my living doesn’t have to be. For this I pray, in Your name. AMEN.