In the late 1st century the venerable philosopher Epictetus wrote, "Know first who you are and what you are capable of." If we are to apply the Golden Rule philosophy (or theology) to others we must first understand who we are in order to understand how we wish to be treated.

Epictetus goes on to remind us that we are always learning and always growing. It is the challenges that we face along the way that help us grow intellectually, physically, mentally, morally and of course spiritually.

When we are not true to who we really are, "you belittle your true self and end up developing in those areas that you would have excelled at quite naturally."

One of those areas who be treating yourself with kindness to develop strength in your personal humanity, get in touch with your inner gentleness and peacefulness, and find a sense of purpose that you might over look. Without this being strengthened within you, how then can it be developed and extended to others?

"Within the divine order, we each have our own special calling. Listen to yours and follow it faithfully."

Epictetus "The Art Of Living: The classic manual on virtue, happiness, and effectiveness." (HarperSanFrancisco: 1995).

Be kind not only to strangers, friends, neighbors, and family but also to yourself. To be able to better understand the challenges of life that the world gives you, begin by understanding yourself and the challenges you bring. When we can learn to treat ourselves with kindness, than we will better understand how to treat others. The Golden Rule reminds us to treat others the way you want to be treated. Therefore it is imperative to understand the latter before you can begin to act kindly towards the stranger.

This was forwarded to me today. What I took from it was how we can begin to live out kindness in small but impactful ways.

How is God speaking to you to use what you have to help others?

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” (Isaiah 30:21 NIV)

"Follow the Little Promptings"

The Holy Spirit always wants to lead us through life, but sometimes we get so focused on seemingly "big" issues that we don't realize how much He speaks in small promptings every day.

I was on my way home one day and intended to stop and get a cup of coffee, when I had a strong impression that I should call my secretary and ask if she wanted a cup too. When I called, she said, 'I was just standing here thinking, I would love a good cup of coffee right now.' 

You see, God wanted to give her the desire of her heart, and He wanted to work through me. I did not hear a loud voice or see an angel or have a vision. I simply had an inner sensing that I should offer her a cup of coffee. 

In the same way, God wants to bless the people in your life. I encourage you today to keep your heart sensitive to God's voice. Follow the little promptings. He will speak to your heart and lead you in the way you should go. 

Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I choose today to quiet myself so that I can hear Your little promptings. Show me ways that I can bless others.