How You Treat Others Matters

Forged in Faith Ministries, Kingdom Strategies: The Power of How You Treat Others

The way we treat others speaks volumes about our character and integrity. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His love in our words, actions, and attitudes. How we engage with others reveals the condition of our hearts and our alignment with God’s principles. It’s not wealth, charm, or material possessions that define us but how we treat others, especially when no one is watching. Manipulative behaviors, which stem from a double-minded heart, destroy relationships and hinder our spiritual walk. Instead, God calls us to a life marked by genuine love, honesty, and humility.

Character and Integrity in Action

The Bible is clear that integrity and character are foundational to living a life that honors God. Proverbs 10:9 (NKJV) says, “He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known.” Integrity means doing what is right even when it is inconvenient or unnoticed. It is rooted in a fear of the Lord and a desire to please Him above all else.

When we treat others with kindness, respect, and fairness, we reflect the character of God. Jesus modeled this for us in His ministry. He treated the marginalized, rejected, and forgotten with dignity and love. In Matthew 7:12 (NKJV), He instructs us, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” This Golden Rule calls us to act with empathy, compassion and considering the impact of our behavior on others.

The Destruction of Manipulation

Manipulation, at its core, is an attempt to control others for personal gain. It is rooted in selfishness and often involves deceit, guilt-tripping, or emotional coercion. Such behavior is draining and destructive, leading to broken trust and strained relationships. James 1:8 (NKJV) warns, “He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” A double-minded person lacks clarity and consistency in their motives, often pursuing their desires at the expense of others.

The Bible condemns manipulation because it is contrary to God’s character. Proverbs 12:22 (NKJV) states, “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.” Relationships built on manipulation are like houses on shifting sand—they cannot withstand the storms of life. Genuine relationships, however, are grounded in truth, mutual respect, and love.

Why People Cannot Be Bought

Many people mistakenly believe that material possessions or empty promises can secure loyalty or affection. However, most people value sincerity, kindness, respect, honesty, and genuine connection far more than tangible gifts. Proverbs 22:1 (NKJV) reminds us, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.” Character and integrity, not wealth, is what leaves a lasting impression on others.

True influence comes not from what you give materially but from how you make people feel. Do your actions communicate love, respect, and kindness, or do they leave others feeling frustrated, upset, used or undervalued? ✝️ Galatians 6:7 (NKJV) warns, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” If we sow manipulation and dishonesty, we will reap broken relationships and mistrust. But if we sow love and integrity, we will reap relationships that glorify God.

A Call to Genuine Love

In ✝️1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NKJV), Paul describes love as patient, kind, and selfless. Manipulation has no place in this definition. As believers, we are called to love others as Christ loved us—selflessly and sacrificially. ✝️Ephesians 4:2-3 (NKJV) encourages us, “With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”🕊️

When we treat others with love and integrity, we honor God and reflect His Kingdom Character.👑✝️🔥Let us strive to be people of character and integrity, knowing that our actions have eternal significance, in this world and in the next.

A Prayer for Integrity and Love

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your Word, which guides us in truth and righteousness. I come before You, acknowledging the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and integrity. Father God, Forgive me, Lord, for any moments when I have acted out of my flesh, selfishness or manipulation. Create in me a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Help me to reflect Your love in all my relationships. Teach me to walk in humility and to treat others with the same grace, respect and compassion that You have shown me. Let my words and actions align with Your Holy will, and may my character bring glory to Your Mighty name.

Father God, I rebuke every spirit of manipulation and double-mindedness in my life. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, so that my motives and actions are pure. Help me to build relationships based on truth, love, and mutual respect. May the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—be evident in my life.

Lord Jesus, strengthen me to walk in integrity even when it is difficult. Help me to honor You in all that I think, say and do, knowing that my life is a living testimony of Your goodness. I surrender every relationship and interaction into Your hands, Heavenly Father, trusting You to guide me in all Your ways.

In Jesus’ Holy and Mighty name, I pray. Amen and Amen. In His Grace, Love and Mercy,

Your sister in Christ Jesus,

Jeannie Walker

Forged in Faith Ministries and Kingdom Strategies©️

May your life be a reflection of God’s love, integrity, and truth. Treat others in a way that glorifies the Kingdom of God Almighty and that builds relationships that endure for eternity. ✝️🔥♥️🙏🏼♥️🔥⚔️🩸🛡️🙌🏼🕊️🫶🏼👑 stand bold and courageous always in Faith of our Savior Jesus. Stay blessed, and much love.