What's A Picture Worth?

It has often been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Perhaps some speak even more. Pictures can be very impressionable. They are often able to convey what words cannot. Many of us have no doubt been touched beyond words as we have seen pictures of the neighborhoods and towns devastated by hurricane Katrina. Some of these images speak volumes. We may have also seen pictures of people affected by those forces of wind and water and the looks on their faces tell more than words can express. It is easy for these images to become fixed in our minds.

When we consider the power of images left in the minds of others, what kind of picture does the EXAMPLE of our life communicate? It is so true that actions speak louder than words. Is there a consistency between what we say and the message our EXAMPLE conveys? What images do our actions impress upon the minds of others?

Paul exhorted the young evangelist Timothy…
“Let no one despise you for your youth, but SET the believers AN EXAMPLE IN SPEECH, in CONDUCT, in LOVE, in FAITH, in PURITY.” ( 1 Timothy 4:12 ESV)

Should that only be the expectation for preachers? Certainly it ought to be the expectation for the elders who shepherd the church and the deacons and others who serve in a teaching capacity. However, should not all of us strive to be EXAMPLES in each of those areas as we interact with our brothers and sisters within the church as well as being our general conduct in life? The thing we must realize is whether we like it or not we will be an EXAMPLE for someone. Others are watching. Someone will be influenced by the actions they see. What is the picture being left in their mind?

Speech! Conduct! Love! Faith! Purity! May we be mindful of the EXAMPLE we are setting in each of these areas. The life EXEMPLIFYING these as God would have it has the potential to leave in the mind of others an image that will speak volumes regarding God’s Wisdom and Way. May we constantly recognize the potential to have an impressionable impact on the lives of others.

Have a great day PRESENTING A PRAISEWORTHY PORTRAIT!
Carl

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