“For their feet run to evil, And make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; They lurk privily for their own lives” (Proverbs 1:16-18).

Sinners condemn themselves by their sins; they bring judgment upon themselves by their own actions. This will certainly be evident at the last judgment, and it is often apparent in this life. Even a bird knows to avoid a net spread while it watches, but sinners do not seem to realize their own actions will condemn them.

The wisdom of the Golden Rule is evident in that people frequently are the recipients of the same kind of treatment they give others.

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets (Matthew 7:12).

The person who digs a pit for his enemy will fall in it himself

Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: And he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him (Proverbs 26:27).

The story of Mordecai and Haman is a classic example. Haman was hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai.

Not only is it unwise to initiate evil; it is also foolish to repay evil with evil.

Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not (Romans 12:14).

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good (Romans 12:17-21).

It is a simple matter to know how to treat others: we should ask: “How do I want to be treated?”

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