1 John 3:18
[18] My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
A Christian’s love should always be love in action. This is the exhortation in our text. If we say we love, and never put our words into motion, they are just empty words. So many today know how to talk the talk, but do not walk the walk. This is discouraging to other believers, deceptive to the one doing the talking, and nothing more than hypocrisy to a lost world. We should note that if a blind world can see through this kind of fake Christianity, then we should never be fooled by it. Words of love, with no action, might make the one talking feel good, but it does nothing for those in need.
I would also give a serious warning not to be fooled by smooth talkers. Beware of those that use words of flattery, but never lift a finger to help others along the way. Many people love the spotlight, the platform, and the reputation of being a giver, but in reality, they are just takers. If you think about it, the ones who are always loving in action, are normally the ones saying the least about it. They are constantly proving their love by their service. Their love is not announced, but is always in motion towards those around them. Do not forget those who have quietly, but steadily, invested in you. But the ones who want to announce their Christian love, do so with little or no service. Real love is more than rhetoric, real love is love in action.
Real love is not only in deed, but it is in truth. Real love doesn’t always tell us what we want to hear, but what we need to know. Real love will always be in line with the Word of God. Real love never leads us away from the truth, but leads us further into the truth. Just because someone says they love you, doesn’t always mean they do. Their actions will always speak louder than their words. We are given a command in this text to love in action. Make it your goal to put your love for others into action today.