A comment a friend made recently got me to thinking that so many of the people who shout their Christianity loudest, wrapping themselves in their beliefs, actually act in the least 'Christian' manner. They seem to think belief in Christ makes them better than others, regardless of their behavior.
On the other hand, many non-Christian, and even atheist, people display ethical behavior. They are kind, sharing, generous, all without expectation of a heavenly reward. Defining morality without religious dogma is secular humanism and I think it actually creates a better morality by putting the onus on the person rather than some outside force.
Whether or not you subscribe to a particular religion, thinking for yourself and not relying on faith allows you to be critical. Really examining why you believe something, why you act a certain way, can be truly enlightening.
For me, doing something because it is the right thing to do is a really good reason. Claiming to be a good Christian while not acting like one is hypocritical.
Frankly, a divine being isn't necessary to create good behavior. Acting in the best interest of society is both self-less and selfish. Think about it. Creating a functioning society along the lines of the Golden Rule benefits all.
So, here's the bottom line. Live by the Golden Rule. Doesn't matter if you are Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Jewish, whatever. All the major religions subscribe to it. Here are 18 tips to living by the Golden Rule every day.
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