In our journey through life, we often encounter simple yet profound wisdom that can transform our relationships and deepen our spiritual growth. One such piece of wisdom comes from an unexpected source: the General Rules of the Methodist movement, established by John Wesley in the 18th century. These rules, inspired by the monastic tradition of St. Benedict, offer us a framework for living intentionally and purposefully. Today, we’ll explore the first of these rules: Do No Harm.
At first glance, “Do No Harm” seems straightforward. After all, most of us don’t set out to intentionally hurt others. We like to think of ourselves as good people with pure motives. However, as we delve deeper into this principle, we realize it’s far more challenging and nuanced than it appears.
The truth is, we often cause harm without realizing it. We judge ourselves by our intentions, but others judge us by our actions. This disconnect can lead to unintended hurt and misunderstanding. The key is to become more aware of the impact our words and actions have on those around us.
The book of James offers profound insight into one of the most common ways we unintentionally cause harm: through our speech. James 3:1-12 paints a vivid picture of the power of the tongue, comparing it to a small spark that can set an entire forest ablaze. He writes, “Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.”
This passage reminds us of the immense responsibility we bear in how we use our words. Gossip, passive-aggressive comments, general negativity, misleading others, and manipulating facts are all ways our tongues can cause harm. Even when we don’t intend to hurt someone, our words can have far-reaching consequences.
But it’s not just about what we say. John Wesley, in his elaboration on the “Do No Harm” rule, includes actions we might not immediately associate with causing harm. He mentions things like “putting on gold and costly apparel” and “laying up treasures upon earth.” These examples challenge us to think more broadly about how our choices and lifestyle might impact others, even indirectly.
Living out the “Do No Harm” principle requires constant vigilance and self-reflection. It means being willing to listen when someone tells us we’ve hurt them, rather than becoming defensive. It involves examining our own biases and habits, being honest with ourselves about how we might be causing harm without realizing it.
Importantly, doing no harm isn’t just about avoiding negative actions. It’s about actively working to create a world where harm is less likely to occur in the first place. This might mean standing up for those whose voices are often overlooked, using our power to lift others up rather than consolidate it for ourselves, and working for justice beyond our own immediate interests.
This principle also calls us to see others as they truly are: people created in the image of God, worthy of dignity, love, and kindness. It challenges us to look beyond someone’s particular situation and see their inherent worth as a child of God.
Embracing the “Do No Harm” rule requires humility. We must be willing to face the uncomfortable truth that we may have caused harm, even unintentionally. It means being open to change and growth, constantly reflecting on our words and actions and their impact on others.
While this work is challenging, it’s also transformative. As we strive to do no harm, we become more like Christ. We create a community that reflects God’s love to all people. It’s the foundation of our spiritual journey, setting the stage for the other two rules: doing good and staying in love with God.
So how can we practically apply this principle in our daily lives? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Practice mindful speech: Before speaking, pause and consider the potential impact of your words. Are they necessary? Kind? True?
2. Listen actively: When someone expresses hurt, listen without immediately becoming defensive. Try to understand their perspective.
3. Examine your habits: Reflect on your daily choices. Are there ways your lifestyle might be indirectly causing harm to others or the environment?
4. Seek to understand: When encountering different viewpoints or experiences, approach them with curiosity and empathy rather than judgment.
5. Use your influence positively: Look for opportunities to use your words, actions, and resources to uplift others and work for justice.
6. Practice humility: Be willing to admit when you’re wrong and apologize sincerely when you’ve caused harm.
7. Cultivate awareness: Pay attention to the impact of your words and actions, even when harm isn’t intended.
As we embark on this journey of doing no harm, we’ll likely find it’s more challenging than we initially thought. We’ll stumble and make mistakes. But with each step, we grow closer to embodying the love of Christ in our words and actions.
Remember, just as a small rudder can guide a large ship, our seemingly small choices can have a profound impact on the world around us. By committing to do no harm, we set the course for a life of greater purpose, deeper relationships, and a more authentic expression of our faith.
Let’s challenge ourselves this week: How can we be more aware of the potential harm we might be causing? Where do we need to listen more and defend less? What steps can we take to ensure our words and actions truly reflect the love of Christ?
As we wrestle with these questions, may we find ourselves growing in wisdom, compassion, and spiritual maturity. May our commitment to do no harm be the first step in a transformative journey of faith, leading us to a life that more fully reflects the love and grace of God to all we encounter.
