The Golden Rule in a Divided World:

In a thought-provoking episode of the "To Be Encouraged" podcast, co-hosts Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble dive into the pressing topic of living out the Golden Rule in the midst of a turbulent political climate and an election season riddled with negativity and fear. Their conversation serves as a clarion call to individuals and communities to reclaim the ethical and spiritual foundations that bind us together.

Below are three key takeaways from this episode:

1. The Golden Rule Transcends Politics

From the very outset, Bishop Julius C. Trimble reminds listeners that the Golden Rule—treating others as you would want to be treated—is a universal standard deeply rooted in Christian scripture and embraced by people of goodwill everywhere. In today’s world, where politics often revolve around attacking opponents and stoking fears of the “other,” this foundational principle offers a beacon of hope and a path forward. As Bishop Julius C. Trimble states, “Any denigration of human dignity is really an injury to the image of God” 02:12. By elevating respect and extending dignity to all people, regardless of their background or beliefs, we have the power to counteract the tide of division and hatred.

2. Amplify Positivity and Service in Community Life

Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble both highlight the overwhelming negativity that dominates news cycles and political rhetoric. Yet, as shared in inspiring stories about joyful moments in worship and church life, there is an abundance of goodness being lived out every day, even if it rarely makes headlines. Bishop Julius C. Trimble emphasizes that real change and “making love real” often happen in proximity—serving at a food pantry, engaging those in need, and embodying Christ’s love in tangible ways 24:07. They encourage listeners to not just respond to discouragement with hope, but to actively amplify stories of kindness, service, and encouragement in their communities.

3. Vote and Lead with the Future—and Others—in Mind

With midterm elections on the horizon, the hosts challenge listeners to make choices not just for personal gain, but with future generations in mind. Bishop Julius C. Trimble urges people to consider whether their decisions—be it at the ballot box or in daily interactions—will be met with a “thank you” or a “what were you thinking?” from their children and grandchildren 31:24. He calls for supporting leaders who practice servant leadership, prioritize people over policies that divide, and work for the common good. The episode is clear: the choices we make today, from how we handle political disagreements to how we serve our neighbors, will echo into the future.

Final Thoughts

This episode of "To Be Encouraged" serves not just as commentary but as a call to action: to treat others well, amplify good in the world, and make choices that look beyond this election or moment. As Bishop Julius C. Trimble so eloquently puts it, the true test of our character is whether—personally and collectively—we choose to live out the Golden Rule, building bridges of empathy, dignity, and love.

For more inspiring conversations, visit To Be Encouraged and explore over 100 episodes dedicated to uplifting a discouraged world.