Therefore, whatever you want men to do for you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

- Matthew 7:12 (NKJV)

This verse is known as the “golden rule.”

A phrase that has been used often around the world and throughout history by philosophers, preachers and theologians.

As Christians, we are meant to be the salt and light of the earth. We are meant to be holy and set apart from the rest. We are to be representatives of Jesus Christ and His kingdom everywhere we go.

We all want others to treat us with respect, kindness and dignity, so we should do our best to treat others the same.

Whenever you go out to a restaurant, be kind to the server.

Whenever the cashier at your grocery store is a bit slow because it’s their first day, show them grace and patience.

No doubt we’ve all wished we had a kind person who loved the Lord around to show us grace when we’ve messed up!

When you choose to treat others the way you’d like to be treated– with kindness, respect, patience and grace, you demonstrate the love of God and glorify Him!

To take it a step further, choose to treat people well even when they don’t treat you the way you’d like.

It’s easy to love people who love you in return, but when you have the maturity to show love to people who aren’t loving, you glorify God’s kingdom and become an even brighter light of His glory and goodness!

“For if you love those loving you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?” Matthew 5:46 (NKJV)

Today, choose to treat others the way you’d like to be treated, even IF they don’t return the favor. You are the salt and light of the world! A vessel of treasure with the Living One inside you!

“Heavenly Father, thank you for helping me to be a lighthouse of your glory. Use me as a vessel of your love and shine your light into the world! I choose to be loving even to those who aren’t. Amen.”

With Love,
Sarah Sherstad

As you reflect on Matthew 7:12, use your Personalized Christian Scripture Planner to examine how your relationship with God shapes how you treat others.

Jesus teaches that we should treat others the way we would want to be treated. This principle is simple, but powerful. It moves faith from belief into behavior.

Write through these prompts:

How do I want to be treated when I’m struggling?

Do my words reflect patience and kindness?

Where do I need to extend grace instead of reacting?

How does my relationship with God influence how I treat others?

What relationship needs intentional love this week?

After reflecting, write a direct and personal prayer:

Ask God to soften your heart.
Invite Him to shape your responses.
Commit to honoring Him in your interactions.

Your journal becomes a space where inward devotion translates into outward action. Relationship with God deepens when obedience flows from love rather than obligation.

Over time, loving others intentionally strengthens both purpose and maturity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Matthew 7:12 mean?
It teaches the Golden Rule: treat others the way you want to be treated.

Why is this verse so important?
Jesus says it summarizes the Law and the Prophets, highlighting its central role in faith.

How can I practice the Golden Rule daily?
By pausing before reacting and choosing kindness intentionally.

Does loving others mean avoiding hard conversations?
No. It means approaching others with respect, truth, and grace.

How does journaling help improve relationships?
Writing helps you reflect on patterns and make intentional adjustments.

How does this verse build a personal relationship with God?
As you love others intentionally, your obedience reflects your closeness with Him.