…but god James 1: 26-27
Transcript
“If anyone thinks himself to be religious, yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.”
James 1:26-27 NASB2020
Our words and our attitudes speak just as loud as our actions. Often times our words speak louder and can cut deeper. That old adage “sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me.” That is a lie. In fact, names and labels that I was called as a child by kids and adults when I recall them, still hurt. However, physical wounds heal and in some cases are stronger than they were before the injury. Words can also have a positive and long lasting effect as well, especially words of encouragement. Friends, Family members, teachers and coaches who believed in me and lifted me up with their words still give me vibrance and strength to this day.
Therefore, we must be careful with our words. St Francis of Assisi (The founder of the Franciscan Order) said “Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.” This means that we should always be serving and loving. This reminds me of what Paul said in Hebrews “let’s approach God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let’s hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
Hebrews 10:22-25 NASB2020
Another encouraging passage regarding how we can use our actions and words as encouragement is written in Romans, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.”
Romans 12:10-13 NASB2020
Actions and words are so vitally connected as our witness as followers of Christ. Let us be connected to the Holy Spirit so that our words and deeds point people to the saving grace of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior!
Lord we thank and praise your Holy and Perfect name. Help us to be connected to your Holy Word so that we can spur one another on towards love and good deeds thus leading those that are not followers of You to seek and serve you as well. We pray all these things in Jesus Name Amen…
Shalom Shalom Blessings and Press In and Press On!
Hosted by Chad McBeam
