Words + Actions = ?

As a leader of Life Groups, do your words always match your actions?  Are you consistent about what you say and what you actually live?  I've been thinking about this a lot this week simply because I feel like I screw this up quite often.  I'll admit it; my words do not always match my actions.  My heart is usually in the right place, but time and time again, what I actually do leaves much to be desired. I think that most of us struggle with from time to time, which only goes to show how imperative it is to rely on Christ and the endless grace that He offers us. 

I was reading through the Psalms this week and came a cross a verse that really convicted me, specifically in dealing with this issue.  I'm also currently writing an article for a children's ministry magazine on this same topic, so I thought that I would share my thoughts with you as well.  As followers of Christ, it's vital that our words and actions line up with His because we're his representatives on this earth, right?  Especially for leaders, we have to consistently assure ourselves that our words are from God's truth, and that our actions follow those same words.   

In Psalm 19:14 David cries out to God in prayer, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer".  Think about what David is praying in this verse.  He doesn't say anything specifically about "actions", but I think it's safe to say that goes without saying.  I read this verse and then asked myself, "When was the last time I prayed something like this?  When was the last time I asked God to guide every word that comes from my mouth, and guide every action throughout each day?"  Well, let's just say it's been a while.  

Let's face it.  We live in a culture that is becoming more and more relativistic.  The more that black and white fades to grey, the more God's truth seems to follow suit in terms of perception.  All the more reason to make sure that we speak the truth with love and that our lives match the same truth that we lead by.  That's what leading is all about and what you've been called to do as a Life Group leader.  Are we going to screw up?  YES!  Over and over, if you're anything like me.  But being regularly focused on our words and actions can go a long way.   

People in your Life Group are going to make choices about who influences them and the things they believe.  Each day, they are influenced by different people in government, the work place, media, Hollywood, etc.  And they are influenced by their Life Group leader.  That's means you.  So ask yourself:  "What kind of influence am I to those I am leading?"  "Are my words true and do they match up with my actions?"  Take some time this week to think about this and spend some time talking with God about how He can lead you.  Don't beat yourself up, but just be honest with yourself and God.  What areas do you need to work on?  What things can you do differently?   

May our words and actions be true and consistent and may they be acceptable in God's sight!  

Peace & Blessings!