Compliments

I received a wonderful compliment the other day. A friend said that I am like a mama to everyone. And this really is a compliment to me.

I love to nurture and take care of people. I guess that's part of my love language.

When I did youth ministry, some of my kids called me Mama (MyMaidenName). I know they loved to pick on me, but I also know they said it because they knew I'd take care of stuff for them when needed.

This was a compliment that I liked, even if it sounded derogatory to someone else. I had a college roommate who hated to be called "cute." I'm sure no one intended to offend her with that, but she didn't like it.

That makes me think about the way that I give compliments. The words I choose and even the tone of my voice convey a lot more than sometimes I intend. If I give a compliment that is sincere but with a funny tone in my voice, how will it be received?

Our words, our body language, and our facial expressions are important. Do they all match? Or are our words saying one thing while our body says another?

That brings to mind James 1:26-27.

Anyone who sets himself up as "religious" by talking a good game is self-deceived. This kind of religion is hot air and only hot air. Real religion, the kind that passes muster before God the Father, is this: Reach out to the homeless and loveless in their plight, and guard against corruption from the godless world. (The Message)

Basically, is our talk and walk matching up? Are we saying something AND following through on it?

Time to talk the talk AND walk the walk.