James 2:8

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

James 2:8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

We can all see the effect of the Golden Rule in our lives. Very well known – used by parents, educators, grandparents, judges, lawmakers, friends, neighbors, it is an important part of our society. Why do we cling to the Golden Rule? Why is it so popular? Why does it work? What is all the glitter in the Golden Rule?

In my message today, I want to look at what I feel the Golden Rule is meant to do for our lives. We look at the Golden Rule and ask, "What is the strength of the Golden Rule?" Its strength comes for God’s Word. While not a verbatim quote, we can see from James 2:8, it has Biblical backing. Anyone that adheres to James’ example would be following the Golden Rule. The Golden Rule is based on God’s Word, God’s discerning Word, God’s strong Word.

I also ask, "What is the sparkle in the Golden Rule?" Why is it so attractive to our society? I think it is because it is right, it is God’s course for us to follow. It helps direct our actions the way He wants us to go. It is especially important in young hearts eager to grab the "sparkle" of Godly living for their lives.

Like Gold that is attractive because of its bright sparkle, it is also cherished because it endures. The Golden Rule brings an enduring peace to our hearts. The feeling of confidence in our actions toward one another is an important part of the workings of the Golden Rule in our lives. Have you ever been nervous about how to treat someone? That is easy, treat them as you would be treated. Honestly do this and if the other party knows this and does the same – we would have a different society to live in.

Okay, I want to get into the message and deal with what the Golden Rule is meant to do for us.

It is meant to be…

As I close today, I want you to look at your lives and see if you have allowed the Golden Rule to be a part of your life. Have our thoughts been adjusted by measuring them against what God would have us think? Have your actions betrayed the effect if the Golden Rule in your life. Do people notice your actions are right? Godly? Aligned with His Holy Word?

Let me ask you today…

How do you like to be treated?

Do you reciprocate?

Do you initiate good actions?

Are you contagious (for the better)?

Or are you one who incites others to angry or hurtful actions?

Do you speak well of your neighbor?

Are you fair with all people?

Are others feelings as important as your own? – Hard to feel that way.

I could continue, but I wont. Reach out and use the Golden Rule in your life today – okay?