Matthew 7:12
"Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."
Matthew 7:13-14
"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it."
Matthew 7:21
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven."
Jesus gives us one of the most well-known teachings in all of Scripture: treat others the way you want to be treated. This simple rule summarizes all of God's commands about how to relate to other people. Before you act or speak, put yourself in the other person's place. Would you want to be treated that way? If yes, do it. If not, don't. Jesus also teaches about two paths in life. The wide, easy path is popular, but it leads to destruction. The narrow path is harder and less popular, but it leads to life. Following Jesus is not always the easiest choice, but it is the only path that leads to true life. Finally, Jesus warns that calling Him "Lord" is not enough. What matters is doing the will of the Father—living out our faith through obedience, not just with words.
Today, before every interaction—with your family, your neighbors, at work, in the market—ask yourself: "How would I want to be treated in this situation?" Then act accordingly. Also, examine your own life: are you on the narrow path? Following Jesus may not always be popular, but it is the path to true life. Don't just say you follow Jesus—show it by how you live.
How would your relationships change if you always treated others the way you want to be treated?
What does the "narrow gate" look like in your daily life?
What is the difference between calling Jesus "Lord" and actually doing His will?