Daily Devo
Show and Tell
By: Jen Devlin
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. James 3:13
Lately, I’ve been thinking about the difference between “show” and “tell”. Back in elementary school, my generation had periodic opportunities to bring in an object and present to the class. But the object's description isn't what made it special. The class would sit in a circle and pass the treasure from little hands to little hands. Around the circle it would go, each kid having the opportunity to experience what the texture, smell, size, or even sound of the featured object was like.
The show and the tell worked together to bring forth a fruitful experience.
In the world of a writer, publishers are looking for books that can show an idea, not one that just tells an idea. That may seem like a subtle, unimportant difference, but really, it's monumental. Especially in the Christian genre. We can all regurgitate information, share ideas that are scripted, and recite overused phrases to each othert. Does that make us an effective witness for Jesus? No, it doesn't. Just like standing in our garage all day won't make us a car.
The difference maker in our Christian message, the thing that will make us a difference maker, is the way we show and share our faith. Sharing the truth of the Bible is the telling. But when we back it up with our daily lives, it becomes the showing. We won't always get it perfect, but we must always strive to draw closer to God each day. How do we do that? By repenting of our sin, encouraging other believers, and being trustworthy to defend our church leaders and family. Living it out shows others who we trust as our Savior; we must do that wherever we go.
“…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Jesus is the ultimate example of connecting the showing and the telling. He went to the synagogue to reason out the scriptures, then He went into the community to share parables, tell stories, and put those biblical truths into action. Most importantly, He backed up everything He said and did with His life. The pinnacle of His actions was His sacrificial death on the cross!
Jesus didn't just tell us He loved us, He showed us; While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8