OUR LOUDEST VOICE

PROVERBS 20:11 NKJ 
11 Even a child is known by his deeds, 
Whether what he does is pure and right. 

Even a child is known by his deeds.  The author is using a child as a point of comparison.  We can look at a child and tell if he is doing right.  We try not to be too hard on kids, but their actions can override their youth and innocence.   

Growing up, there was a kid on my block that my parents did not want me to play with.  Looking back on it now, I can see he had some problems.  He was constantly doing something to get himself in trouble.  This was not a perception; this was reality.  His actions were bad.   

We can talk about having a good heart or good intentions, but the real determining factor is in what we do.  Our actions speak the loudest.  There is an old saying that what you do speaks so loudly I can't hear what you say.   

Our words are powerful, but they are even more powerful when our words and actions agree.   

APPLICATION 

What are your actions saying about you?  Joy is constantly talking to me about the look on my face and the tone in my voice.  These are things that speak.  And I admit it's a bit tough on me when my wife always has a sweet look and nice tone.  But I am working on those areas.  These actions are saying something, and I want what I say to be pure and right.   

PRAYER 

Heavenly Father, help my actions convey what is pure and right before You and others.  May my actions be my best voice.