Actions Speak Volumes Over Words

I think we've all heard the quote "actions speak louder than words". But when you really think about it, I believe there's lots of people who don't realize how true this quote really is. There's nothing more frustrating than someone who tells you one thing and yet their lifestyle contradicts what they told you. Someone who tells you to do something and yet it's not something that they choose not to do themselves. Shouldn't words and lifestyle go hand in hand? Should what someone says be visible in their own life? Well I think they should. You don't have to go very far to find examples of this. It's commonplace among politicians, athletes, teachers and other leaders in society. One thing I've always tried to do is let my lifestyle model what comes out of my mouth. Have I always succeeded? Nope! But it's definitely something I try to do. It's more than talking the talk. Life is really about walking the walk. Is there anything in your life where your words don't line up with your actions? I think it's always good from time to time to take a look at how this is playing out in your life. Being able to talk a good talk is one thing, but walking a good walk is something very different. I love the example of Paul in the Bible. He was a man who not only talked a good talk, but he walked it also. I love what he says in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Pattern yourselves after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah)." Can you say that to others? Is your walk such that others can follow you and grow in their walk with the Lord? Each day don't forget that your actions do speak louder than your words :)