All scriptures are quoted from the NIV Bible.
Yes! Gentleness, kindness, compassion, and tenderness are all expressions of love. God is love; and "the Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being." (Hebrews 1:3), so Jesus is also love. Love for God and for others should be the foundation of any witnessing we do, whether with or without words.
Maybe you've heard the saying, "Men may doubt what you say, but they will believe what you are."
We know the Lord wants us to "do good to all people" (Galatians 6:10), and we are told to let our "light shine before all men" (Matthew 5:16). Not all of us feel we can express our devotion to God with convincing words. The Apostle Peter points out that unbelieving husbands "may be won over without words" by their wives' example; and this can surely be applied to other situations.
When an unbeliever finds a trustworthy Christian who demonstrates truly unselfish concern for others, he or she may recognize the power of faith in that Christian's life. The love of God reflected from a believer's heart may open the heart of the unbeliever.
However, this is when words may ultimately be essential. Although some of us struggle with words, we should prayerfully confirm our own faith in our hearts and minds. Peter said, "In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." (I Peter. 3:15) It may take years to develop a close enough relationship with the Lord so that our proclaiming Jesus to others is completely spontaneous. But this should be our aim.
God's love, through Jesus, is perfect. Our love is not yet perfected, nor is our wisdom. Being kind and compassionate is always in order and must be our way of life. But we must ask the Lord to guide us as we seek to comfort one who is hurting. We need God's guidance to minister in the best way, both through loving actions and words of truth.
