What is the “golden rule” in the Bible and how can you apply it to your life?

The “golden rule” is a term that originated from Jesus’ famous teachings in Matthew 7:12 and Luke 6:31:

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” — Matthew 7:12 (NIV)

“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” — Luke 6:31 (NIV)

It is called the “golden rule” because through it, most of the commandments are fulfilled (seven out of 10, to be exact). This is what Jesus means when He says that this rule “sums up the Law and the Prophets.” 

But why is the golden rule so important? And how does simply treating others the way you want to be treated ultimately fulfill how God wants us to live? 

The golden rule breeds empathy and love

When we strive to treat others the way we would like to be treated, it forces us to give extra thought to our words and actions. Too often, we as Christians are tempted to cherry-pick verses to judge the behavior of others, and we use this judgment to fuel our righteous attitude when things go south for the other person. We default into the “you reap what you sow” mentality, and — if left unchecked — we can slip into a holier-than-thou attitude that is anything but what Jesus modeled. 

However, when we follow Jesus’ teachings to love others and treat others with the dignity and respect we would want to be treated with, it forces us to view each person and situation through the lens of love and empathy. We no longer stand on the outside and judge, but rather we step into each other’s daily struggles and pain, and we shoulder the burden together. 

In Jesus’ final words to His disciples, He says that people will recognize His followers by how well they love others. (see John 13:35). This is how we show that love — by treating others the way we would like to be treated. 

How can you apply the golden rule to your life?

There are several moments every single day when we have the opportunity to act in love. Whether it’s stopping to listen — really listen — to a friend or co-worker who is struggling, or just bringing a cup of coffee to your spouse in the morning. Sometimes, it’s asking yourself, “What can I do to make their day a little easier?” 

Whatever it is that you do, let it be done in love. We won’t always get it right, but I’d rather err on the side of love than on the side of judgment any day.