Daily Devotional – Saturday, May 7, 2022
Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
Matthew 7:12 (NKJV)
As a student preparing for examinations, I would summarize the key points to remember. This enhanced my chance of performing optimally.
“If you forget everything you learnt today,” I now tell my students, “do not forget the following points.”
Which is the Greatest Commandment?
Jesus loved summaries, too. For example, when the Pharisees asked Him which the greatest commandment was, He replied,
“‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:37-40).
Jesus was referring to the two tablets of the Ten Commandments: the first with four commandments and the other with the remaining six laws.
The Power of Summary and the Golden Rule
The Golden Rule is another summary that Jesus gave, which every human being, irrespective of religious affiliation will find useful: “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12).
How wonderful and habitable the earth would be if we lived by this creed! Imagine the peace and harmony that would prevail! We would have significantly fewer conflicts. Many courts of law would be redundant.
Today, before you talk or act, ask yourself, “If these words or actions were directed at me, would I be happy?” If it is the right thing to do, go ahead. If it is not, desist.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, remind me to put myself in the shoes of the other person before I speak or act for or against him or her.
