The Law of Moses and the Golden Rule

Philip Joslin, Arizona, USA

Throughout my life, I’ve learned that the scriptures help us solve life’s problems. At one time, there was quite a bit of bickering and fighting among the children. My wife and I became frustrated as we tried to teach Christlike behavior to our children and wanted a happier, more peaceful family.

At our next family home evening, I gathered the family together and sternly explained that we were going to start following more rules in the house. I unraveled a long list of rules written on several pieces of paper I had taped together. “Absolutely no running in the house. No yelling. No eating here or there …” The list continued with many “don’ts” and some “do’s.”

The children appeared stunned. They began to ask, “What does this rule mean?” “How will we remember all these rules?” And “What happens if we break the rules?”

I then held up another, single sheet of paper. I explained that we could either follow the long list of rules or obey one simple rule. Then I turned it around to read, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (see Matthew 7:12).

I explained that the long list of rules was the way some people might see the Law of Moses. We also discussed the benefits of treating others as we want to be treated. As visual reminders, we posted our long list of rules and the Golden Rule on the refrigerator.

Our family experienced more peace and order after focusing on the Golden Rule. We were blessed as we “likened” the scriptures to our family’s needs.