The Platinum Rule

 ^…then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others       Philippians 2: 2-4

While recently listening to pastor Adam Hamilton preach on the Sermon on the Mount, I heard him mention the Platinum Rule. This is a bit of an upgrade, I think, to the famous Golden Rule. The Golden Rule, of course is “treat others as you would have them treat you.”

The Golden Rule is certainly a time honored and respected way to deal with other people. Yet, the idea of a more thoughtful approach is this- “do unto others, wherever possible, as they would want to be done to them.”

Do you see how respectful that is? It takes me out of the position of assuming that others would like to be treated like I am treated. I am no longer judging what I think is best for them, rather I am asking, “what is it that you need?”

As a counselor, one of my jobs is to formulate a treatment plan with my clients. As we proceed, I ask them what they want from the counseling process. How can I help get you where you would like to go?

By paying attention to the client needs, I can check myself to ensure that I am not imposing my goals on their treatment.

So, I like the idea of a Platinum Rule. Sounds pretty respectful to me.

Prayer: Lord, help us to keep in mind how others may want to be treated, Amen.