To and For (nope, not to and fro)

So then, whatever you desire that others would do to and for you, even so do also to and for them, for this is (sums up) the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 7:12 AMP)

The 'to' and 'for' is kind of a different way of interpreting this familiar passage, isn't it? What would you have another do 'to' and 'for' you? If we are honest here, the imperative is that we act or behave in the manner we want others to act or behave toward us. We are always being observed, no matter our 'stature' or 'prominence' in this society. Consider for just a moment some of the behavior we have seen from those in prominent positions. Do they behave with decorum and grace? Or do they behave with a lack of sensitivity toward others? The higher our 'prominence' or 'position' in life, the more we can count on others observing our behavior and adopting similar behavior as 'okay'. It is as though we 'set the norm' for behavior for those around us, isn't it? Maybe this is why it is so important for us to pay attention to this passage.

Even so do also to and for them. In case you have missed it, society has adopted some pretty 'bad' behaviors over the past decade or so. Behaviors such as 'talking over one another', 'refusing to hear another's opinion', 'having no other mission than your own' and 'criticizing one another' has become the 'normative behavior' of our culture. When someone else does or doesn't do what we expect them to do, the remarks begin to fly, don't they? The harsh words, strong attitudes, and even harmful actions come forth. This isn't the way they want to be treated themselves, so why is it that they treat others that way? It has become 'normal' behavior and no one 'calls them' on that behavior. Sometimes the greatest thing we can do for one another is confront 'bad behavior' in a loving and grace-filled way. It could 'reset' the norm!

The more we emulate good behavior (godly behavior), the more we can expect those who have adopted the behavioral norms of our society to find fault with it. You may have been referred to as a 'goody-two-shoes' on occasion, but is that a bad thing? Most of the criticism you receive isn't because they dislike your behavior. It is likely that they are slightly convicted by the simplicity of it! There is a design to all that scripture teaches. The 'design' behind this instruction is that of being 'reasonable' and 'loving' in our relationships. Allow others to be blessed repeatedly by your actions and you might just find they are less critical of your behavior than they are envious of it! Just sayin!