How to Love Others
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” — Matthew 7:12
This scripture is commonly called the Golden Rule, and most of us would probably agree that, in theory, it’s a good foundation for a healthy relationship. In practice, though, the principle is tough to live up to consistently. It’s easy to love others when they treat us well, but what about when they’re unpleasant? The truth is, Jesus meant for us to love others all the time, not just when they’re lovable. Regardless of the attitude of others, we are to think about the relationship qualities we value — loyalty, trust, encouragement, forgiveness, acceptance, and protection — and let them flow from us toward others. When we apply the Golden Rule, relationships thrive and deepen.
