“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.” – Titus 2:7
You have probably heard the phrase, “Actions speak louder than words.” There is a reason it has lasted so long. It is simply true. Paul told Timothy to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Notice he did not say to give great speeches or write impressive letters. He said to set an example. Your whole life is the message you are sending. People hear what you say, but they follow what you do. The way you treat a difficult coworker, the way you respond when things do not go your way, the way you love people who are hard to love. That is what sticks. That is what shapes the people around you. This is actually really encouraging, because it means you do not have to have all the right words. You just have to live with integrity. When your life is consistent with what you believe, that consistency becomes one of the most powerful things you can offer anyone. Your example is always speaking. Make sure it is saying something worth following.
Reflection
If the people closest to you modeled their lives after what they observe in you, what kind of faith would they develop?
Quote
“People hear what we say, but they follow what we do. Behavior is not taught, it’s caught.”
Prayer
Jesus, let my life reflect You in the small moments, not just the big ones. Where my actions and my beliefs are out of alignment, give me the grace to close that gap. Amen.