Words v. Actions

There seems to be an idea circulating that Christians don't necessarily have to live a life that reflects their faith, or the teachings of the Bible. This, to me, is a clear contradiction of the teachings of Christ and of the entire Bible.

It's easy to say, "Yes, I believe in Christ; I'm a Christian." It's not hard to say the words. But if it's merely words and not evident in someone's lifestyle the words will not ring true.

From Titus 1: "They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him." Or, in the words of a contemporary translation, "They say they know God, but their actions speak louder than their words."

What then should we believe, the words or the actions?

"Well," some might reply, "none of us are perfect, so our lives won't be perfect." I agree, but despite failings, there can and should be a pattern of life that differentiates one's "walk" from what goes on around it.