What we say and what we do had better line up with each other. People spot hypocrisy pretty quickly.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver [if their heart is right], but the heart of the wicked is of little value [regardless of what they say].

Proving the Love of Christ is of utmost importance. God calls us to show love to people, both Christians and non-Christians. We must prove that:

1. We are followers of Christ and not just believers. The difference is whether we just intellectually believe in Him or actually entrust our lives to Him. “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that–and shudder” James 2:19.
2. The power of Christ is in us changing us into Christ-like people. The people around us must see the change in us. Forgiveness, and purity of mind and heart are what they will notice quickly.
3. Having Jesus in our lives is more than just talk. We have to walk the walk. Be encouraged; all Christians must walk the walk, too. Let’s hold each other accountable.

Everything that happens to us has a spiritual purpose. Let’s use it to its full advantage. When people notice that we are different and ask us about it, let’s tell them that it’s Christ in us that is making the difference. If the Spirit is working in them, then they will ask more questions. If He is not, then we pray for them that He will begin soon to work in them, maybe even using our words and/or our lives to bring their hearts under conviction.

Steven Curtis Chapman sings,

You can run with the big dogs, you can fly with the eagles,
You can jump through all the hoops and climb the ladder to the top,
But, when it all comes down, you know it all comes down to the walk.

Abba, help us to walk the walk even as we talk the talk. I know it’s important for our lives to match our words. No double-standards here. Thank You for setting the example personally. By relying on Your Spirit all the time, I know we will succeed. Amen.

The Walk by Steven Curtis Chapman