The Power of Actions: Making an Impact Without Words

Paul, along with others, stood by a fire to warm himself from the cold and rain. As we read in Acts 28, Paul suddenly suffered a snakebite. Surprisingly, it didn’t seem to phase him at all, but it certainly made an impact on those who were watching him. In fact, his calm and unshaken response to danger led the onlookers to believe he must be a god. This story highlights something profound about human nature: our actions, especially in moments of challenge, often speak louder than any words we could say.

Last night, my wife and I sat down to enjoy a simple meal at a local eatery when a friend walked in, alone. We invited him to join us for a chat. We had a pleasant time, and as she often does, my wife laughed, making the conversation even more enjoyable. At the time, I didn’t think much about it, but it turns out people noticed. As we finished our meal and left the restaurant, the staff mentioned how uplifting it was to see people genuinely enjoying each other's company. They even commented that our laughter seemed to brighten the atmosphere.

It’s a reminder that small moments can have a ripple effect, even when we least expect it. We’ve all heard the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.” Whether it's shaking off a snake from your hand or sharing a moment of laughter in good company, someone is always watching. It might be a colleague who notices your calm demeanor in a stressful situation, or a stranger who witnesses your kindness when you help someone in need. The truth is, we may never fully realize the impact we have on others through our actions.

In fact, someone saw me yesterday, and I can’t help but wonder: what kind of impact did I leave on them? Was it a positive one? Did I show patience when it was needed? Was I kind, even in the face of frustration? The truth is, every day we have the opportunity to influence others without uttering a single word. Our body language, our demeanor, and the way we treat others can create a lasting impression.

In a world that often values quick fixes, flashy speeches, or grand gestures, it’s easy to forget that the most significant changes often come from simple, everyday actions. Whether it’s offering a smile to someone who looks down or patiently listening when someone needs to talk, these small actions can often have a greater impact than we realize.

So, the next time you’re faced with a situation, take a moment to reflect on the impact your actions might have. Are you embodying the values you want to share with the world? Remember, it’s not always the grand speeches or dramatic moments that shape people’s lives—sometimes, it’s the small, thoughtful actions that speak the loudest.

“So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.” - Acts 28:9