We know how to give good gifts to our children, says Jesus. We know this even though we are evil. Jesus says if we know to give good gifts to those we cherish and guide, then we may expect God, our Father, to give even better gifts to us. All we need do is ask. And, we need to ask for that which is good.
Jesus says:
“Therefore, all things whatever 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)
“Therefore” because of God’s willingness to give good gifts to us, we must be willing to do good to everyone — not just good to those we love, our children. If we expect God to be good to us, then we must be good to others. How can we accept goodness from the hand of God while dishing out evil to neighbors, co-workers, friends, strangers, enemies?
“Enter at the narrow gate; for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be who go in that way; because narrow is the gate, and hard is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)
Jesus says it is so much easier for us to treat others poorly, without thought of the consequences to their hearts. The damage we do is the easy and broad way that leads to destruction. The narrow way is hard to follow; it’s tough to do good to others all the time. Sometimes, we are irritated, depressed, lonely, angry, insulted, haughty, insecure. Sometimes, from our hearts come all sorts of evil words and deeds.
Rather, look for opportunities to do good to others, even to those who may not treat you well. No one is beyond God’s loving-kindness. Find the narrow gate; walk in the hard way. If you stumble, pick yourself up and ask God to forgive you. Then, keep to the narrow walkway. It leads to life.