“Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Ephesians 6:7
Sometimes it is difficult to wrap your head around some of the customer interactions in the marketplace these days. Coarse words, even outright vulgar language can be heard circling the public square. As we ask ourselves “how did this happen?” Customers and customer service representatives can be heard trying to blame each other for the shortcomings in our culture.
While many businesses still shine with kindness and excellence, there are others that make you feel like you’re an inconvenience rather than a valued customer. I’ve had a few of those encounters recently, and honestly, if it weren’t for my faith, I might’ve said a few things I would later regret.
What’s happened to simple courtesy, mutual respect, and a willingness to help? Whether I’m dining out, making a return, or requesting corrections, I try to be gracious and patient. But when responses come with eye rolls, cold tones, or blatant disregard, it tests my heart.
As believers, we’re called to take the high road—even when it feels unfair, unreasonable, and unbelievable.
I get it. Serving others all day can be exhausting. People are stressed. Many are overworked, underpaid, and dealing with their own battles. But as followers of Christ—whether we’re the ones providing a service or receiving one—shouldn’t our behavior reflect the heart of Jesus?
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being intentional with how we treat others.
Jesus put it simply:
“Do to others as you would like them to do to you.” – Luke 6:31
This verse isn’t just for Sunday school. It’s a call to action for every conversation, every transaction, and every interaction we face—whether it’s in the grocery line or behind the counter.
There was a moment in my past when I did tarnish the gold of the Golden Rule. I was working hard in a role that demanded a lot and offered very little in return. When I finally found the courage to speak up about the unfairness, my concerns were dismissed—and I let my frustration boil over. I said some regrettable things. Was I justified? Maybe. But did I reflect Christ in that moment? No. I’ve learned from that experience that speaking the truth is important, but how we speak it matters even more.
Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:23:
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.”
That changes everything. It reminds us that no matter who’s on the other side of the exchange—whether they’re helpful or hostile, we’re ultimately serving Him in how we respond.
Of course, none of this is easy. It’s humbling to stay quiet when you’re tempted to react. It takes strength to remain kind when you’re being mistreated. And it’s especially tough when the person you’re dealing with is also a Christian—because we expect more from each other, don’t we?
But that’s when grace matters most.
The enemy loves to stir division through irritation, pride, and offense. But Jesus calls us to be different. He tells us to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), to forgive seventy times seven (Matthew 18:22), and to clothe ourselves in humility (Colossians 3:12).
When we choose love over retaliation, we reflect the heart of Christ more loudly than any sermon.
I’m not saying we should accept mistreatment or never speak up. Sometimes it’s appropriate to bring a concern to light—but always with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). And when we get it wrong, thank God for His forgiveness and the chance to try again.
Each interaction is an opportunity to either build a bridge or burn one.
Maybe today, someone will frustrate you. Maybe you’ll feel overlooked or misunderstood. But what if that’s the exact moment God wants to use you to show His love?
Let’s be the ones who go the extra mile. Let’s model excellence, whether we’re serving or being served. Let’s return to the heart of the Golden Rule—not as a catchphrase, but as a lifestyle.
Because at the end of the day, we’re not just representing ourselves. We’re representing Jesus.
Lord, help me to live out the Golden Rule in all I do. When I’m tempted to react in frustration, remind me of Your mercy. When I feel wronged, help me choose humility and kindness. Let every word and action be a reflection of Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.