According to man, there is an exception to every rule, a caveat (or maybe two) that lets him off the hook in case he doesn’t quite measure up, or fails to meet the standard in question. Yet this is the nature of man, for he is always looking to maneuver every situation so that it falls in his favor, even if that means bending a few rules to ensure that he winds up ahead.
However, what he cannot see is the failure in his logic. For if every rule governing the world has some form of exemption, then why set boundaries at all, because any loophole discovered will soon be exploited, thus diminishing the rule’s effectiveness? So while some may argue that exclusions must be included in all legal or moral statutes, how does society benefit from employing this form of ideology? Hasn’t history proven that the continued undermining of its ethical codes leads to the degradation of society as a whole?
For example, consider the Golden Rule, which clearly defines that one is to treat others the way they themselves wish to be treated. Yet while there is no ambiguity in its language, an individual’s application of this moral tenet is often inconsistent, since man is prone to setting conditions on his own behavior, only offering kindness for as long as it is reciprocated.
Then, for most, this familiar rule only rests in a shallow sense, evidenced through polite exchanges and courteous acts. For actually adhering to this principle without discrimination would mean every offense, insult, and slight would receive a gentle response, one absent of resentment or any form of malice. But as is common with man, exceptions soon make any rule null and void in his life, for a rule isn’t really a rule if it isn’t applied equally to everyone.
However, the charge in this rule is not new, for it was given as a commandment long ago, when I mandated that man was to love his neighbor as himself; so whether loved or hated, the response should not change no matter who a person encounters, as friend or foe are to be held in the same kind regard.
Therefore, in these days where societal tension is on the rise (for the taking up of an offense over another’s personal beliefs is being encouraged, especially when these ideals are contradictory to that of popular culture), let those who are Mine be reminded of this Golden Rule, and see that you strictly adhere to its command that you treat everyone with lovingkindness, even those who are openly hostile towards you because of Me; for I have not changed My mind on this matter.
Though you may be prone to taking a defensive stance, ready to fend off any verbal assault over your moral, political, or spiritual views, instead, let down your guard, and realign your position so that you are entirely disposed to agree with this commandment. For you who have been loved much, and that, undeservedly, should be all the more ready to express this love to anyone and everyone, even your rivals. Be careful not to embrace the prevailing attitude of the day, where perceived offense entitles you to behave rudely towards another. For you who were chosen, were called to follow after Christ and pattern your lives to be a reflection of His.
“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.” -Matthew 7:12 (NLT)