Actions Speak Louder Than Words

"We judge ourselves on our intentions, others judge us based on our behaviors, and sometimes those two align."

And I've been chewing on that all day. Do my behaviors accurately display my intentions to those around me?

Do people think things I totally wasn't intending? Do they not get what I was intending?

See, I can't expect others to read my mind, even though sometimes I slip into that mindset. 🫣

And funny enough, sometimes words get all messed up too. I go to say something and it completely crashes and burns. (Like this happens often guys).

I've also learned over the last few years that words can often be empty. We say one thing, then do something completely the opposite.

So why did he say behavior instead of words? Let's throw in another word -- "actions" -- to be synonymous with "behaviors" today.

Actions. They speak louder than words.

Sometimes they are true to our intentions. Sometimes they're not.

Sometimes they align and undergird, and sometimes they undermine our intentions.

The key, I think, is to pursue intentional living, and to resolve to live out what we think and believe.

Ghandi once said that "action expresses priorities" and I think it's critical that we realize, in this age of 'keyboard warriors' and 'over-promisers,' our actions MATTER.

And even more so, to guard our actions carefully to ensure they are authentic to who we are and what we mean to convey.

Just as every idea has a consequence, every action is tied to a priority and also yields consequences.

(Good ideas have good consequences, bad ideas have bad consequences, etc.)

So first; are my intentions RIGHT? Are they GOOD?

If not (or unsure; man, take that to the Lord because He gives grace and truly does have all the answers.

If so; do my actions accurately display these intentions to those around me?

If so; great, repeat with every area of life.

If not; how can I improve my behavior and actions with intentionality to communicate more accurately that which is inside of me?

And listen, I get that it's not maybe as simple as that if/else statement, but I'm just sharing my raw thoughts with you so you can think it over and further develop the thought for yourself.

So there's my short thought for today. I'd be curious to hear if you have any further thoughts on this (whether in agreement or disagreement) so that I can learn from you, friend. Feel free to reply and let me know!

Have a splendid week, friend!