A Norvell Note
Vol. 21 No. 45 | November 11, 2019
“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get. (Matthew 7:12, The Message)
These are some of the most well-known and quoted words in all of Scripture. But I often wonder what our lives would be like if we actually put these words into practice.
Parents might listen to their children more intently and with more respect for their children.
A husband might try to be more accepting and kind when his wife has emotions or moods he can’t understand and doesn’t want to talk about.
A wife might just sit and listen to her husband without trying to explain, defend, or fix what is going on.
A politician might respect his constituents more, work harder to make their lives better, and give them the benefit of the doubt that they’re not just out for personal gain.
A church leader might be more sensitive to a member who is frustrated and hurting because she feels inadequate to do what God has called her here to do.
A customer might demonstrate more grace and kindness toward a cashier, even when he isn’t receiving the kind of service he expects.
A writer might be more concerned about using his words to encourage and inspire his readers.
I think I’ll give it a try, and I hope you will too.
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A Norvell Note © Copyright 2019 Tom Norvell All Rights Reserved