Backing Up Words with Action

Pastor Brian Young
Whispering Pines Church

2/23/2006 - I read a true story recently about a young immigrant to our country who quickly became disillusioned with relationships in American culture. While at a social event, the man interacted with several well-meaning Americans who said, “It has been so good to meet you. It would be great to have you over for dinner and get to know you better.” The eager young man went home and for several days waited anxiously by the phone for the formal invitation. He even came home early from work to get the call. It never came. Soon, the deflated immigrant learned his important lesson about American culture—words are often used as mere pleasantries, with no real meaning.

  I find such a story compelling and challenging. The old saying, “Say what you mean and mean what you say” comes to mind. Often, I have caught myself saying things like, “Let’s get together for lunch sometime,” in the back of my mind knowing that it may never happen. Life is busy, and though my intentions are good, the harsh reality is that these words encourage others in the moment, but they have no action behind them. Other phrases such as, “How are you?” and “How’s life?” serve well as empty greetings in our fast-paced culture. Further, on a spiritual level, words such as “I’m praying for you” are very easy to say as an encouragement or help in time of pain or great need. But do they square with reality? Sadly, they do not. Though, all of us would agree that THEY OUGHT TO!

  Years ago, I resolved to use only those words that I am prepared to back up with meaningful and timely action. In other words, if “Let’s do lunch sometime” comes out of my mouth, I will strive to set up a time with that person within the next week. Or if I say the words, “I’m praying for you,” I will try if appropriate to pray on the spot with that person or to write down the issue to pray about in a more fitting context. I must say, I’m a work in progress, however. It is oh so tempting to fall back into the pleasant words backed up by no action. With the new year rolling around, perhaps all of us can help each other back up our well-intentioned words with meaningful action. Blessings…