Reciprocity

"Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets," says Matthew 7:12 New Living Translation Bible. Treating people well involves the fruit of the Spirit which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5).

Let's look at a few good deeds. Many examples of doing good are found in the Bible. In Genesis 18 Abraham interceded with God to rescue Lot and his family from Sodom, a city filled with wicked behavior.

When Miriam and Aaron criticized Moses in Numbers 12 for marrying a Cushite woman, God gave Miriam leprosy. Instead of retaliating, Moses prayed for Miriam to be healed. Sometimes people do things that we do not like. Instead of escalating the situation, pray for proper behavior.

In Judges 1 Caleb gave his daughter, Acsah, land and springs of water. This helped her and her husband, Othniel to have the resources they need for living.

Different people and different situations, but all reflecting the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12).

Goodness is one part of what is commonly known as the Golden Rule. We cannot be good on our own. God in us helps us to do what we need to do. God helps us to see ways to have good relationships. God gives us spiritual eyes and ears to see and understand what people in our sphere of influence need and want.

Is there something you could do today to help someone?