When we read God’s word but don’t apply it to our lives, we deceive ourselves. The Bible states, “If anyone knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is wrong.” When you know the truth but don’t act on it, you are not simply making a mistake or exercising poor judgment by ignoring the potential consequences. Wrongdoing should never be tolerated.
Today, in our world the clarion call is for each person to act in a way that contributes to the good of our neighbors and nation. It is often said that wisdom comes with age. However, the nation has become more accustomed to relying on social media for information.
Over time, we build a reservoir of responses, and when the truth gets too close for comfort, we find many reasons why it applies to everyone except us. Spoken words can move us momentarily, but they don’t necessarily change our thinking or opinions permanently.
There is nothing wrong with responding emotionally to spiritual truth. But if you go merrily on your way without changing your behavior in the slightest, your spirituality boils down to nothing more than a spiritless emotional experience. Let’s not substitute communication for transformation. You might talk the talk, but do you walk the talk?
You might think if you speak eloquently and convincingly about a point, you can change the opinion of others. But if have covered all the key points and you fail to move people to behave morally, your words are wasted and of no importance. As the Apostle James said, “Do not merely listen to the word of God, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
In other words, it is not just good enough to read and speak the words of God. We must use the wisdom and apply it to our lives and act morally for the good of all humanity. The Bible teaches that knowledge without obedience is morally wrong.
So, the next time the opportunity arises for you to speak the truth, make sure that you also walk the talk. God will be well pleased with your spoken words and actions as you seek to change the world as a leader. Remember spoken words matter. Be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Dr. Walter Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
