When Actions Speak Louder Than Words

I heard a quote today that will not leave me alone. I had to "Google" it to be sure I had it right before I posted it here. Here it is:

"Preach the gospel. Use words if necessary."

There is widespread disagreement about who said this. Some say it was St. Francis of Assisi, others say it was Thomas Aquinas.

I don't really care who said it. This quote nagged at me many times after I heard it in a show I had recorded (DVR). The quote is one that I'd like to keep in my heart and mind many times throughout each day.

It's not that words are not important. It's more that I think folks see and copy my bad habits much more easily than my good ones.

It reminds me of all the times in my past when I have been concerned because I have given bad example by my own words and actions. I honestly believe we are as accountable for what our bad example leads others to do as are those who copy our bad example. That was kind of complicated.

Let me simplify it. I do something wrong. It could be spreading a piece of gossip, or telling a lie no matter how good the reason behind it was, or using my employer's computer for personal reasons. Someone else sees me do it. They reason that I'm a reasonably good person, so it must be okay for them to do the same thing. I have therefore not only done something wrong, but I have caused someone else to do something wrong. It multiplies, because people follow the leads of others, especially those they normally respect and like.

Anyhow, this quote definitely shows that living a good life, giving good example, is just as important as a few thousands posts like this which are only filled with words.

I cross the paths of many, many others each day. Even if I do not leave the house, I might cross someone's path in a phone call, in an email. If I neglect to do something (sin of omission) that others know I should have done, I have given bad example. When I am outside, on errands or for other reasons, the paths I cross are multiplied to an amazing degree. I never even give a thought to the person who checks out my groceries, or those I pass in the aisles at the supermarket, or other drivers on the road.

The list is endless. The action I should take is obvious. I should live my life as close to God's commandments as I possibly can, given my human tendency to weakness. Words alone are not enough. In plain terms, in today's world, I can translate it as "actions speak louder than words."

Heavenly Father, your son Jesus brought your words to life for me and for others. He lived those words and gave me many, many examples to follow. I pray that I may live so as to give good example to others.