The Golden Rule
Steve Walter

"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets" (Matthew 7:12).

The "Golden Rule" is one of the highest ethical rules of conduct for man given by the Lord. How we treat others is very important to God.

He is watching and listening. "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.(Hebrews 4:13).

As elders, do we treat preachers with respect as the Lord wants them to be treated? As preachers, do we honor the elders as He expects us to do? Do men treat women with honor and respect and do women treat men the same? Just ask yourself this question about people in your various walks of life and see if you really follow this rule.

Are we really treating others as we would want to be treated? Are we taking the initiative in treating others properly before we find out how they will treat us? Do we set the standard? Or, do we see what advantage we can gain over someone else in order to have the "upper hand" and put others at a disadvantage? Are we kind, helpful, fair-minded, forgiving, merciful, generous and loyal? A married couple spoke of the success of their marriage. They said, "We always try to follow the Golden Rule. We always try to treat the other one as we would want him or her to treat us."

What if we were treated the very same way that we treat others? Would that treatment make us feel good or bad? Honored or dishonored? Would that treatment be a glory to the Lord, or would He be ashamed and disappointed in us?

"Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another .... Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits" (Romans 12:10, 16).

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you! (Ephesians 4:32).

God is watching and will judge us on how we deal with one another.

Our hearts go out in deepest sympathy to the family and friends of our sister Frances Eubanks who passed away this past Sunday evening (Sept. 19). Funeral services were held at Kersey's last Wednesday morning. Frances was a member here at Orange Street for many years. May God provide comfort during this time of deep sorrow and loss.

October Calendar

The October edition of the Activities Calendar and Men To Serve List is available today in the foyer. The information is also available on our web-site: www.orangestreetcofc.com.

Fellowship Tonight

All are invited to stay tonight (Sunday) for a time of Christian fellowship and food while we honor the birthdays and anniversaries for this month. Members should remember to bring snacks and finger foods.

Ladies' Work Group

The Ladies' Work Group meets tomorrow evening at 7:00PM in the annex. All of the ladies of the congregation are invited to attend and participate in the group's fellowship and activities.

Carolina Relief

The elders have sent a check to the Southside church of Christ in Williamston, NC to help with the relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Floyd.

Fish Fry

Several of our members attended the Fish Fry, hosted by the Jackson Avenue congregation at Mary Holland Park in Bartow, yesterday (Saturday). The food, fellowship and singing was wonderful and enjoyed by us all. Although an early rain held down attendance somewhat, there were still about 100 or so present. Our thanks to the brothers and sisters at Bartow!!