I Thessalonians 2:8 “Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us.”

Over your lifetime, did you watch how your father lived? The very best way a man can show that he is a Christian is to live and act like one. Yes, our words are important, but our actions to confirm those words have an even greater impact. How we live our lives will be our message, our purpose, our passion, and our ministry of spiritual leadership. Our character will produce our example to follow, and our example will be the product of God’s Word and our character. I found this timely quote which goes along with our verse this week, “My father didn’t have to tell me how to live; he lived and let me watch him do it.”

Paul was very clear in I Thessalonians 2:8 on what we are to impart to our children and to our co-workers. We are to share the gospel both in word and in how we live our lives. Actions do speak louder than words, and those whom we lead are watching to see if we do what we say and believe. If others see us doing something or taking some action as their leader, then they must feel it is okay to do the same. To make the statement, “Do as I say, not as I do,” is not leadership and is hypocrisy. When those whom you lead see the path down which you are going, is it the path you want them to follow. If you cut corners at work or treat people with a non-Christian attitude, why should they not do the same. We often take too lightly the influence and impact of our leadership and actions. Live the Christian life and let those whom you lead watch you live it out. The consequences may well be eternal. Memorize Proverbs 20:11 “It is by his deeds that a man makes himself known; if his conduct is pure and right.”