I’d Rather See a Sermon than Hear One

“As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say. I just watch what they do.”

Show my your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do – James 2;18 NIV

I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day.

I’d rather one should walk we me than merely show the way.

The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear;

Fine counsel is confusing, but example always clear;

And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds.

For to see the good in action is what everybody needs.

I can soon learn how to do it if you’ll let me see it done,

I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.

And lectures you deliver may be wise and true;

But I’d rather get my lesson by observing what you do.

For I may understand you and the high advice you give,

But there’s no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

 – Edgar A. Guest