Our theme for this month: “Take care of each other”
Our Bible verse for today: “For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done for you.” John 13:15 (CSB)
Our thought for today: “Treat them well even if they don’t deserve it.”
In yesterday’s devotional we thought about “the Golden Rule”, as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:12). “Therefore, whatever you want others to do for you, do also the same for them …” The application is that we are to treat others as we ourselves would want to be treated if the roles were reversed.
But what if they don’t deserve to be treated well? What if the other person is being a knucklehead? What if it’s your inconsiderate husband who left dirty dishes in the sink and underwear on the bedroom floor? How does the Golden Rule apply then? Well, before you spout off in anger with some snarky remark ask yourself, “What if I was the one who left dirty dishes in the sink and underwear on the floor? How would I want him to bring it to my attention?” Chances are you would prefer a gentle reminder, or even a little good-natured ribbing about it, rather than an angry retort. So, do the same for him.
Treating others well, even if they don’t deserve it, is Biblical and it honors and pleases God. Your good example could even inspire them to change their behavior. Pastor Chuck Swindoll put it this way, “Hey, who knows whom you could persuade if you walked with God? Few things are more infectious than a godly lifestyle.” In other words, you should do the right thing regardless of whether the other person is or not. You be a godly man or woman and trust that your good example will inspire them to good conduct too. That’s what Jesus was modeling for us in John 13:15.
When it comes to taking care of each other, we need to do so whether we think the other person deserves our kindness or not. The great Christian author C.S. Lewis reminds us, “There is always one thing more going on in a person’s life of which you know absolutely nothing.” He meant that people have issues, and there’s a reason they act the way they do. Maybe your husband dropped his underwear on the floor and forgot about it because his mind is preoccupied with an issue at work. Maybe the Holy Spirit told him to leave the dishes in the sink in order to create yet another opportunity for you to be a good wife and to serve your husband. (Okay, I’m stretching, but you get the point.)
So be considerate and sensitive. Kill them with kindness. Treat them well even if you think they don’t deserve to be treated well.
Oak Hill Baptist Church