No matter what our words say, we need to offer loving actions and living truth to reach hearts and love others as God loves us.
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)
I don’t know about you, but I’m kind of a talker. Words are my love language and I use them to praise and easily as complain.
This verse sticks out to me because when words are your default, you can sometimes forget that they need action to back them up. As a mom, I know that saying “I love you” to my kids is important, but have to remind myself to mix in a hug to really send the message home.
When it comes to our faith, actions speak louder than words. Sermonizing, reciting scripture, and many other verbal and mental ways of sharing faith and praising God are great. But if we want to win over hardened hearts and really explain the core of our beliefs, then we need to get out there and show them.
Loving actions and living truth
With my children, actions need to be married to words for them to really take root in their hearts. It’s the same with others. How do we show our love? Through loving actions and truth.
Instead of talking about how God loves all people, show that love with acts of friendship, generosity, and service.
Rather than trying to change the heart of your unbelieving friend or spouse, show them by example the peace, strength, and grace that fills your life as a follower of Jesus.
We’ve all seen the negative consequences of someone who says the right things, but fails to perform loving actions and live in truth. The multi-millionaire pastor who shutters his church to hurricane victims. The politician who campaigns for family values while having an affair.
How will we show love today? How will we perform loving actions and live truth for others?
Spend some time today seeing where you can model godly behavior for others, showing them the all-encompassing love of the Father. Even if words are your language of choice, others will be more open to your message when your actions illustrate them.
Have a wonderful Monday!
Looking for more inspiration and encouragement today? Try these posts:
Chasing Equality in a Divided World
Loving Action.
A body in motion tends to stay in motion, but a body at rest tends to stay in motion.
I think it applies to this very well. If we make loving actions and living truth an intentional habit, look out! Isn’t there a verse about out doing one another in showing kindness? 🔎📖😁
I know what you mean and it’s a great point! I had to look up the verse you mentioned, but I think it’s this one… “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12:10 ESV). Such good advice!