The Proof's in the Pudding

The Proof's in the Pudding


"Therefore show to them...the proof of your love."
II Corinthians 8:24

Proof of insurance, proof of ownership, proof of residency and proof of citizenship; what seems like a never ending need to show proof of something to someone, to establish beyond the shadow of a doubt the validity of something. Luke talked about it in Acts1:3 when he said that Jesus "gave many convincing proofs that He was alive". And Paul had to give proof that the Lord was speaking through him to the believers he was writing to in the city of Corinth.

The title, "the proof's in the pudding" is a saying that's been around a while and is still in use today when you're talking about believing a report you've been given. What it means quite simply is that the proof of how good something is comes when you taste it. It is often used when talking about a person changing or displaying some character trait; the proof's in the pudding. It goes right alongside "actions speak louder than words" and "I'll believe it when I see it" and has a sense of doubt associated with it.

In reality, we should not be surprised or offended by people wanting to see proof of our genuineness and sincerity. Our actions should confirm the work of the Lord being done in our hearts. Others should be able to taste of our lives and, in so doing, prove our love and the faith we live by. John wrote in I John 3:18 "let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth". And Paul was talking about giving when he said "show these men the proof of your love". Our actions will either prove or disprove the love we have for others; our willingness to sacrifice and give of our time, talents, and resources will be the proof of our love.

One of my favorite verses is found in Psalm 34:8 where David declared confidently "taste and see that the Lord is good". God's love and faithfulness for each of us can be both experienced and proven. I pray that your words and actions will provide to the watching world evidence and proof of a changed life, one that is becoming more and more Christ-like with each passing day.

God Bless
Pastor Joe
Gateway Church