Recently, I encountered this humorous and somewhat convicting statement: “You have to work hard to offend Christians. By nature, Christians are the most forgiving, understanding, and thoughtful group of people I’ve ever dealt with. They never assume the worst. They appreciate the importance of having different perspectives. They’re slow to anger, quick to forgive, and almost never make rash judgments or act in anything less than a spirit of total love. . . . No, wait—I’m thinking of golden retrievers!”
Wow! How I wish that statement captured the essence of the way believers act toward one another and others. I wish it was a picture of how I act on a daily basis. Even if we fall short, however, we should continue to strive to have a lifestyle that honors God and blesses others.
Jesus said, “A new command I give you – love one another” (John 13:34). He went on to say that our love for one another would show the world that we followed Him.
I was taught the Golden Rule as a child – Do to others as you want them to do to you. That “rule” has often been twisted. “Do to others before they do to you” or “Do to others like they do to you.” This isn’t what Jesus taught! Our actions should be grounded in a genuine love for others and show themselves in mercy, grace, kindness and goodness.
Do I live a lifestyle that reflects the love of Christ? If not, what’s wrong in my heart?
Be Transformed 