Unspoken life

“If I mocked at them, they did not believe it, and the light of my countenance they did not cast down.” (Job 29:24)

This verse prompts a question: If, without the luxury of words, we communicated solely through our actions or mere presence, what message would our lives convey?

It is said that a smile is the light of one’s countenance. Job was a righteous man, well-respected man of God. His friends and countrymen lauded him for wisdom, and all men listened to him, heeding his instruction. Prior to Job’s afflictions, people sought his favour. Consequently, his smile was enough to encourage and lighten their loads (verses 21-24).

Our preoccupation with words often obscures a simple truth: What we say is not as important as who we are. Job’s smile made a difference because of the life he led.

Our most authentic forms of communication occur without a word. Rather, they flow from an understanding smile, a compassionate touch, a loving gesture, a gentle presence, or an unspoken prayer.

God used Job, an ordinary man with an extraordinary amount of love and wisdom - a man whose only adornment was righteous living and a warm smile. And He wants to use us, too. So keep smiling. Someone may just need it.