Latest Devotion
The Golden Rule
By: John Carrigan
Friday, September 18, 2026
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12
The experts in the law often tried to test Jesus with their questions. When one of them asked Jesus which commandment was greatest, Jesus summarized the Old Testament (the Law and the Prophets) into two commands: Love God, and Love people (Matthew 22:37–40). He spoke with authority, and rephrased God's truths to reveal their core essence.
On many other occasions, Jesus challenged His listeners with this phrase, "You have heard that it was said, but I tell you..." With those simple words, He raised the standard of obedience and explained the true meaning behind the scriptures. Jesus wanted them to understand that obedience isn't outward actions, it comes from our hearts. Jesus' words targeted the heart in every area of life—addressing anger, lust, honesty, forgiveness, and how we view others.
But if I'm being honest, I still catch myself trying to rationalize my opinions. My mind argues that certain people "don't deserve it" for a multitude of reasons. But in God's eyes, none of them are valid. The truth is, none of us deserved God's forgiveness, but He gave it to us anyway. God didn't just forgive us, in His unlimited grace, He sent His only Son to die for us!
Jesus's message for all of us is crystal clear, and it's one we must all obey:
"You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that.” Matthew 5:43–47 (NLT)
Our relationship with God is inextricably woven into how we treat people. If you are a Christ follower who struggles to love others like Jesus, that simply makes you human. But as you read this, God may bring a specific person to your mind. If He does, right now is the time to repent, ask for forgiveness, and ask God to help you love them like He does. We all make mistakes, but remaining disobedient to God's commands is a path that never ends well.
Lord, help us love others like you do!