Silent Words

“A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance” (Proverbs 15:13a). It “doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). When the Spirit-filled Christian ministers to an individual and communicates Christ’s life, there is a language in the countenance. The Word of God produces a cheerful expression without superficiality.

Many times, people encounter extremely difficult trials in life where words are not appropriate. Friends may not know what to say; yet, despite the silence, there is a language that is spoken in their countenances. It reveals love and support, and it communicates life, favor and kindness. Facial expressions can also testify against people who do not have the Word of God in their hearts. “The shew of their countenance doth witness against them” (Isaiah 3:9a).

Then there is the language of a smile. When a person briefly sees a friend, but does not have an opportunity to speak with him, a simple smile can express how he feels. “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17).

When you are in a situation where words do not seem appropriate, remember that the Lord speaks through your countenance. Sometimes this is more easily understood than words. “Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance” (Acts 2:28).