The Key To Living a Godly Life

On experiencing a very challenging phase with my two children, who seem to have taken childhood squabbling to a whole new level, I`ve been reminded of this scripture, as I seem to be implementing the heart of it on a highly frequent basis!

I often find myself saying to Kyle, “How would you feel if I said that to you?” Or “How do you think Zoe feels when you snatch a toy from her... do you like it when Zoe snatches from you?” And to Zoe, “That made Kyle sad. Do you like feeling sad?”

I`m sure every parent reading this knows what I`m talking about and such words echo around houses the world over. Whether we realise it or not, we`re expressing a scripture that sums up all the commandments, and is a fundamental key for living a godly life.

`Do to others as you would like them to do to you` is such a simple phrase. It`s uncomplicated, clear and concise. So much so, that every parent I know uses the concept to bring direction and guidance for their children, starting at a very young age.

As I consider this, I must ask myself that difficult question, “Do I truly live by this scripture in my own life or have I lost sight of this simple truth?” I know that I can easily find myself fighting for my rights, wants or needs; sometimes to the detriment of my family or friends. And I suspect I`m not the only person who does this!

This godly challenge has niggled away at my heart for a while, and I considered why it`s so difficult to live life this way. The simple truth is this: because very few people do it, we ask ourselves, “Why should I be the only one who puts others first?” “Even if I do live like this, nobody else will put me first.” “I have needs and wants too ... who is to say their needs are more important than mine?” “They don`t treat me like that, so why should I treat them any better?” And so the excuses go on.

This scripture is found in the midst of the `Loving your enemies` part of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus was starting from a place of no excuses ... even treat your enemies like this.

I can`t help but think that, if everyone in the world lived by this simple sentence, the world would be an amazingly different place! By simply asking ourselves, “What would I like them to say or do for me in this situation?” we know that our response would be right and godly. It would be a blessing to others and would bring blessing into our own lives. For me, as a mum, I know that it would certainly bring peace!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I admit I make many excuses not to live my life by this simple scripture, yet I expect others to treat me how I want to be treated. Help me to get my part right so I can experience the peace and blessing of living a godly life. Amen.