Author James Baldwin wrote: “Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.”

At the heart of this quote is a reminder that people—not just children—may choose to ignore what we say, but most people can’t deny the “words” our actions speak. Our actions—whether positive or negative—influence others. If what we profess about Christ doesn’t align with our actions, it can cause others to turn a deaf ear to what we say. Likewise, actions that demonstrate Christ’s love can influence someone for the good. 

The Bible is filled with examples of those who influenced others—more through their actions than their words. Lydia’s entire household was baptized after she was (Acts 16:14-15). And what about the jailer in the same chapter of Acts? He became a believer after witnessing Paul and Silas’ words and actions. The men chose to stay in prison even when the jail doors had been blown open (vv. 25-34).

I personally love what Paul tells Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:5. Paul acknowledged the faith of two women who raised Timothy, his mother, Eunice, and his grandmother Lois. Their faith was on display for Timothy throughout his life—in the mundane day-today routines as well as on special occasions. He was evidently influenced by their faith.

How we live matters—to God, to ourselves, and to those who are watching us. People aren’t always good at following what we say, but they sure can imitate what we do.

Katara Patton, Our Daily Bread author


Watch Also:

Actions Speak – Daily Devotion

Our actions often demonstrate more than what we say or even what we feel. Hosea beautifully demonstrates unconditional love in obedience to God, and his actions still apply to us today. (Written by Bill Crowder)


Our Daily Bread Ministries in Indonesia is supported by the freewill offering of individuals in Indonesia, who through their gifts enable us to continue to bring the life-changing wisdom of the Bible to many here. We are not funded by any church or organisation.