Friday Fight 97 - Say and Display

Every Friday, when I wake and pray, God places something on my heart to help me fight darkness beginning in our minds. Today is FF97.

Do we ever reflect on whether our words align with our actions? The ancient old saying "practice what you preach" definitely comes to mind. Our application of this could be generational, especially when considering what we say as adults instead of what we display. At some point, we have all insisted our children not do the very thing we are doing. So let's look at how mindful we are of our words versus actions. Does what we say align with what we display?

Say and Display:

When we use the word display, let's apply it in the context of our character, our outward appearance, and our actions. Regardless of where we are: home, work, church, or even the grocery store, we should try to carry ourselves in a way that pleases God. As a parent or leader, we are called to be an example of God's sacrificial love for us. Therefore, we must continually strive to become what we want our children and those we lead to become, or they will become who we are.

The foundation of this lesson encourages a self-reflection of any area of our lives where the distance between our words and actions is growing further apart. For example, are we kind and patient at work but quick to anger at home? Do we show respect to our church leadership but then turn around and speak unpleasantly to our spouse? What areas can we work on this week?

This lesson may seem less important, but not to Satan. Nothing is more damaging than a non-believer watching the behavior of a Christian, only to be turned away based on the things they display. Satan will use this to convince non-believers or even new Christians that all followers of God are hypocritical and judgmental. Since Christians are supposed to represent Christ, we are not glorifying God when our words and actions do not support one another. Hypocrisy is what stumbles people. How we speak or what we do when people are not watching tells a lot about a person's character.

As Christians, our attempts to emulate Christ are often unsuccessful, even in our most significant attempts. Since each morning offers new mercies, we are given another opportunity to walk in the character of Christ. This lesson brings appreciation to a self-reflection of our integrity, humility, and spiritual maturity, ensuring these do not fluctuate based on the day of the week. Maturity in the Christian faith means continually being corrected by the Holy Spirit and even welcoming that correction. It's not necessary for us to be perfect, to be without sin, to show others the love of Christ. In fact, for those who don't know God, our being accessible and vulnerable brings trust and communication. We must be silent if what we say and display are on opposite ends of the spectrum. When we fall short, we ask for forgiveness; when we feel weak, we ask for help. In doing this, the "display" will speak to many. God is growing us spiritually, molding us into the people who will bring Him the most glory.

Pastor Shannon

New Life Calvert