What Are You Saying?

Have you ever said, “I love you,” to your mom or dad? I’m sure you have. You probably have also said, “I want to be good. I want to do what is right.” Not many children want to be bad. So if someone talks about stealing, or lying, or cheating, you say, “I never do that! I always tell the truth.” But what are you really saying?

You don’t speak only with your tongue. The tone of your voice says something, and so does your attitude. “I will help!” in a cheerful voice means something much different than, “I will help,” muttered as you glare at the floor. But it is your actions that speak loudest of all. They show what you are really saying.

The lesson Rosie learned in the story is an important lesson in life. It is what we do that shows what sort of person we really are. Are you someone who can be trusted? Do you really want to do right? What are your actions saying? If you put yourself first and think about how to get out of work, you are saying, “I love myself.” If you do your chores cheerfully and work hard to do your best, your actions say, “I want to be trusted.”

The Bible talks about those who say they love God and those that do God’s will. I might hear you pray, “Help me to do right today.” And then if I hear you quarrel with your brother and complain about the work Mom gives you to do, what are you saying? So how do you think you can show that you love God? Not by saying things with your lips. Anyone can do that. Think instead about saying things with your hands and feet today. Will you give God your time and energy and please Him in every way you can?