Living Out Love: The Power of Example Over Opinion

I was waiting near the front counter of a coffee shop the other day, standing next to two women also waiting for their takeaway orders. Yes... I was eavesdropping, which is kind of hard not to do when you're the only three standing there. One of the ladies stated, "Well, in my opinion," and began to ramble on about another friend of theirs and what she should have done.

It was... well, familiar territory for me. I've been those women too many times to count, many years ago… giving my opinion even about things I've never been through or had any knowledge about. It’s so easy to slip into that mindset, isn’t it? To think that our opinions are not only valid but necessary, that somehow, our perspective will be the key to someone else’s problem.

As I stood there, I felt a pang of conviction. How often have I offered my two cents on matters where my only qualification was simply having an opinion? Too often, I’ve forgotten that true wisdom and change come from living out our values, not just talking about them.

Oh my, how I was reminded of Jesus. He didn’t spend His time on earth merely sharing His opinions. He demonstrated love, compassion, and grace through His actions. His life was a living example of God’s love and truth. And it’s through His example that we find the most profound teachings and the most transformative power.

Think about the moments in your life when you’ve been deeply moved or inspired. Was it because of someone’s opinion, or was it because of the way they lived, the love they showed, the kindness they extended? More often than not, it’s the latter. Actions truly do speak louder than words.

Can I get totally honest with you? Sometimes living by example also means stopping other people's opinions or judgments from entering a conversation at all. It means pulling them up and shutting down conversations before they can even go anywhere. It’s not always easy, but it’s essential.

I remember a time when I was caught up in gossiping. Yes, I look back totally ashamed, but my "concern for someone" was really just an opening to talk about them. Instead of building others up, I was tearing them down behind their backs. But then, I met someone who never engaged in gossip, who would gently steer conversations away from negativity and judgment. Her example was a powerful reminder of the impact of our words and the importance of integrity. Her actions spoke volumes, teaching me the value of speaking life and positivity.

It’s easy to have opinions; it’s much harder to live out our beliefs. It requires vulnerability, authenticity, and a willingness to lead by example, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable. But it’s in these moments that we have the greatest impact.

So, instead of offering unsolicited opinions, let’s strive to be examples of Christ’s love. Let’s show kindness, patience, and understanding in our daily interactions. When we live out our faith authentically, we become living testimonies of God’s grace and love.

Imagine if we all committed to this—how different our communities, our families, our workplaces could be. Instead of debating and criticizing, we could be uplifting and inspiring one another. Our world desperately needs more examples of Christ’s love in action.

Next time you’re tempted to offer your opinion, pause and consider: how can I live out the values I hold dear instead? How can I be a living example of love, grace, and truth?

Lord, help me to lead by example. Teach me to live out Your love and grace in my actions and interactions. May my life reflect Your kindness and compassion, and may others see You through me. Give me the wisdom to know when to speak and when to simply live out my faith. Amen.

Love Sarah xx.

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