Louder Than Words

Last night in Bible study we were taking about the Crown of Exaltation, the “Soul Winners Crown”. Pastor David made the comment (anonymous quote), “Whatever you do speak loudly, and if necessary use words.” Or as Francis of Assisi stated, “Preach the Gospel at all times. Where necessary, use words.” I am sure this is where the modern quote came from.Pastor David and his wife are an amazing example of ‘Soul Winners’ and their lives speaks thousands of words that lead others to salvation. We may have all met people like that – at least I hope you have. We also read about these people and may see them on television from time to time, those whose lives are spoken though their actions. Mother Teresa is a prime example of someone whose actions still speak louder than anything thing she ever said, and she did say some amazing things. You can find hundreds of her quotes online. I am not saying words are not important. They are extremely important but those words should have action behind them or sometimes in the forefront.

But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire. Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy. 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20

On our way home from Bible Study I was wondering how loud my actions speak? What do they tell other people about my life? What does God see me saying? It was a very humbling thought and I think I do need to make some major changes in my life.

For one I am a bit of a recluse. Seriously, I spend a lot of time alone at home and although this is not a bad thing in and of itself it doesn’t help people in a physical way and when you help people physically, you touch their mind and spirit. You bless them.

I do enjoy writing and sharing my thoughts about the Lord but is that enough? I don’t think so. I think I need to be out in the world doing things and not just during the holiday season. I need to do more. I need to give more of myself. If Mother Teresa and Billy Graham only spoke I don’t think we would be hearing much about them today. I think Graham’s books would be on the back shelf of a dusty used bookstore. What makes his words believable is the life he led. The words unspoken speak louder than anything he ever shared from the pulpit.

I want my life to speak loudly. I want to preach by example. I want the Lord to smile upon me and give me a nod of approval. During this holiday season maybe you can take a few moments and reflect on how loudly your life speaks to others.