Three Simple Rules

1. The World We Live In Is Deeply Divided

We live in such a fast-paced, frenzied, and complex world that it is easy to believe we are all trapped into being someone we do not wish to be and living a life we do not desire to live.

Global Fragmentation. Our world is increasingly characterized by deep divisions across multiple domains. Nations, communities, religious groups, and even families are experiencing unprecedented levels of conflict and separation. The optimistic post-World War II vision of global harmony has been replaced by growing hostility and misunderstanding.

Sources of Division:

• Political polarization
• Economic inequality
• Religious differences
• Ideological conflicts
• Technological echo chambers

Systemic Challenges. The current global landscape is marked by a breakdown of traditional communication and understanding. Institutions that once promoted unity now seem more focused on highlighting differences, creating an environment of mistrust and fragmentation.

2. Three Simple Rules Can Transform Our World

There are three simple rules that have the power to change the world. While they are ancient, they have seldom been fully put to the test.

Transformative Principles. The three simple rules offer a radical approach to navigating our complex world: Do No Harm, Do Good, and Stay in Love With God. These principles, rooted in Wesleyan tradition, provide a universal framework for personal and collective transformation.

Key Characteristics of the Rules:

• Universally applicable
• Easy to understand
• Challenging to implement
• Applicable across cultures and beliefs
• Focused on personal and collective healing

Potential for Change. These rules offer a counterintuitive approach to resolving conflicts, suggesting that radical transformation begins with individual commitment to non-harm, active goodness, and spiritual connection.

3. Do No Harm: The First Essential Rule

If, however, you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.

Proactive Non-Violence. "Do No Harm" is more than passive avoidance of negative actions. It's an active commitment to preventing damage to others, whether through words, actions, or systemic behaviors. This rule requires constant vigilance and self-reflection.

Practical Applications:

• Guard your speech
• Avoid disparaging others
• Prevent manipulation
• Honor every person's dignity
• Create safe spaces for dialogue

Spiritual and Psychological Depth. Practicing non-harm requires profound trust in God's guidance and a willingness to surrender personal control. It demands radical faith and the courage to resist worldly patterns of conflict and competition.

4. Do Good: A Radical and Challenging Commitment

"Whoever does good is from God."

Proactive Kindness. Doing good is not passive waiting but an active, intentional pursuit of positive change. It involves seeking the welfare of others, regardless of their relationship, status, or perceived worthiness.

Dimensions of Doing Good:

• Universal compassion
• Healing wounded relationships
• Challenging systemic injustices
• Prioritizing community over individual interests
• Extending grace to enemies

Transformative Potential. By committing to do good, individuals can fundamentally reshape social dynamics, moving from divisive, competitive models to collaborative, healing approaches.

5. Stay in Love With God: The Spiritual Foundation

Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually.

Spiritual Intimacy. Staying in love with God is the core energy source for meaningful transformation. It involves maintaining a dynamic, ongoing relationship with the divine that continually renews and guides personal and collective action.

Spiritual Practices:

• Daily prayer
• Scripture reflection
• Community worship
• Listening for divine guidance
• Acts of mercy and compassion

Transformative Power. This spiritual connection provides the strength, wisdom, and perspective necessary to consistently practice the first two rules of non-harm and active goodness.

6. Spiritual Disciplines Keep Us Connected to God

Ordinance is a strange word to our ears. But to John Wesley, it was a word that described the practices that kept the relationship between God and humans vital, alive, and growing.

Intentional Spiritual Growth. Spiritual disciplines are structured practices that maintain and deepen one's connection with the divine. They provide framework and structure for ongoing spiritual development.

Key Disciplines:

• Public worship
• Private prayer
• Scripture study
• Fasting
• Community engagement
• Reflective meditation

Personal Transformation. These disciplines are not mere rituals but dynamic processes of personal and collective spiritual formation.

7. Transformation Begins with Personal Choice

The question from Jesus continues for each of us, "My daughter, my son, do you love me?"

Individual Agency. Meaningful change starts with personal commitment. Each individual has the power to choose a path of transformation, regardless of systemic or environmental challenges.

Choice Dynamics:

• Recognizing personal responsibility
• Making conscious spiritual decisions
• Rejecting destructive patterns
• Embracing radical love
• Committing to continuous growth

Empowerment Principle. Personal transformation is always possible, regardless of past failures or current circumstances.

8. Forgiveness and New Beginnings Are Always Possible

The good news is that we can start again. We can also recite the failures of institutions and systems that are near and dear to us. The good news is that the past can be forgiven.

Redemptive Hope. Every moment offers an opportunity for renewal and recommitment. Past failures do not define future potential.

Renewal Strategies:

• Acknowledge mistakes
• Seek forgiveness
• Recommit to positive principles
• Learn from past experiences
• Embrace grace

Transformative Mercy. The ability to begin again is a fundamental aspect of spiritual growth and personal development.

9. Love is the Central Question Jesus Asks

Jesus simply asked, "Do you love me, do you really love me?"

Relational Essence. Love, not achievement or doctrine, is the core of spiritual transformation. The fundamental divine question is always about the depth and authenticity of love.

Love Dimensions:

• Unconditional acceptance
• Radical compassion
• Sacrificial commitment
• Transformative relationship
• Ongoing dialogue

Spiritual Depth. Love transcends intellectual understanding, requiring continuous, intentional engagement.

10. Discipleship Requires Courage and Faith

Only those with great courage will attempt it, and only those with great faith will be able to walk this exciting and demanding way.

Challenging Path. Following these transformative principles is not for the faint-hearted. It demands significant personal investment and spiritual maturity.

Discipleship Characteristics:

• Radical commitment
• Willingness to be vulnerable
• Continuous learning
• Embracing uncertainty
• Trusting divine guidance

Heroic Spirituality. True discipleship involves choosing a challenging, countercultural path of love and transformation.

Last updated: December 28, 2024