I'm sure we've all heard the saying, "Actions speak louder than words," right? I've been thinking a lot about this lately, although I'm not entirely sure why. Then my devotional last night was all about that very subject. I figured that was a good cue to talk about it.
"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."- 1 John 3:18
We live in a world where Christians are put under a microscope. People are watching us. And while that might be frustrating at times, it can also be a great opportunity to share the love of Christ. What we say will only matter if our actions match what we're saying. This can go either way. If we claim to be a Christian, but get angry and lose our temper, or don't give generously of our time and resources, or fail to put other people's needs above our own, people are watching. We as Christians are not perfect, and should be open to that fact. But at the same time, we should also be aware that we are held to a higher standard, and that's okay. We should be able to handle it. People don't expect perfect, but they do expect authenticity.
And beyond that, sometimes people will experience God through our actions when we don't even realize it. We share Christ's love in so many simple, practical, every day ways. It might be holding a door for someone, or telling someone to have a nice day, or picking something up when someone drops it. It's about noticing the people around us, rather than just walking by. It's true, it might not ever be noticed if we pass by people, but then again, kindness could show someone God's love without us saying a word.
It works the same way in our relationships. I can tell my family that I appreciate them every day, but if my words aren't backed up with actions, is it doing much good? I can tell my best friend that she means everything to me, but if I don't show her that, then does she really know? I can tell the youth I work with that they are worth something and that they are loved every time I see them, but if I don't take the time to show them how or why, am I doing my job?
Just some thoughts to ponder. I'm not the greatest at it either. But thankfully, I have people in my life who show me how to do this all the time. This little poem is from the devotional that I read last night out of "Our Daily Bread." I think it's a pretty good reminder for all of us.
"I'd rather see a ChristianThan to hear one merely talk,I'd rather see his actionsAnd behold his daily walk."- Herrell
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Louder Than Words
Wednesday, 04 August 2010 22:59 | 
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Reflections