Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #14 — The Golden Rule

Picture: Counsel #14 — The Golden Rule CR 170.1

Have you ever done something really dumb to a friend unintentionally (or even intentionally!) and hoped that they would forgive you? That’s where the golden rule comes into play in the forgiveness saga. The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12) is a call to love your neighbor as yourself, mirroring the selfless love of Christ. CR 170.2

When you’ve wronged someone, the Golden Rule encourages you to consider the pain you’ve caused, as you would hope others would consider your own feelings. This empathy leads to sincere apologies and a desire to make amends. Moreover, the Golden Rule reminds us that we are all sinners in need of God's forgiveness. By extending grace to others, you can reflect the mercy you’ve received from God. The Golden Rule is a practical guide for navigating relationships, fostering understanding, and living out the Christian faith. You hope to be forgiven by God and others, so pass it on!^[167] CR 170.3

“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 CR 170.4

“The golden rule of equity demands that we do unto others as we would they should do unto us. We are to keep their eternal interests in view, saying to ourselves, ‘They are the purchase of the Saviour's blood, bought with a price.’”  Ellen White in Our Father Cares, p. 264 CR 170.5

Reflect: How does the Golden Rule connect with the concept of loving your neighbor as yourself? CR 170.6