I'd Rather See A Sermon

Edgar A. Guest's poem highlights how actions inspire and teach more effectively than words.

I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.

Short Poems & Quotes / Famous Poets / Edgar A. Guest Poems / I Rather See A Sermon

Updated December 23, 2024, by Catherine Pulsifer

This poem by Edgar A. Guest, I'd Rather See A Sermon, is a timeless reminder that actions speak louder than words. It encourages us to live in a way that sets an example for others, showing kindness, honesty, and integrity through what we do, not just what we say.

We’ve all experienced moments when someone gives us advice or tells us how to live, but their own actions don’t match their words. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? On the other hand, when we see someone living out the values they talk about, it inspires us to do the same. Let this poem be a gentle nudge to lead with your actions and inspire others to follow.

I'd Rather See A Sermon

Poet: Edgar A. Guest

I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,
But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you and the high advise you give,
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.

Key Reflections from the poem:

Actions Always Speak Louder
It’s easy to tell others what they should do, but actions carry far more weight than words ever can. When we live out the values we talk about, we become a living example, inspiring others without saying a word.

Be a Clear Example
Words can be misunderstood, and advice can often seem overwhelming. But when others see us consistently acting with kindness, integrity, and purpose, it sends a message that is both clear and powerful.

Inspiration Comes from Doing
We all feel inspired when we witness a thoughtful act or someone going out of their way to help others. Those moments motivate us to reflect on how we can do the same, reminding us that small actions often have the greatest impact.

small actions often have the greatest impact

Short Quotes from the poem, I'd Rather See A Sermon:

"The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear"
Edgar A. Guest
People can talk all they want, but it is what we see people do that makes more of an impact. What you see influences you more than what you hear. As the saying goes, "actions speak louder than words".

"But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do"
Edgar A. Guest
People always learn more from observing than by just being told what to do. When you see something being done you can understand better than just hearing what to do.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
Edgar A. Guest
People are influenced and inspired by others. One act of kindness can be passed on and influenced by many more.

I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.
Edgar A. Guest
Seeing is believing and most people would rather see a sermon by the way you live and what you do, than to hear you talk about what you believe and will do.

People are influenced and inspired by others

Related:

Be An Example Quotes - Discover quotes that remind us of the power of setting a positive example through our actions—just like Edgar Guest’s poem inspires us to do.

Let Your Light Shine - This uplifting poem encourages you to shine brightly through good deeds, reinforcing the idea that our actions can guide and inspire others.

Good Poems - Explore poems that celebrate doing good in everyday life, echoing the message that actions speak louder than words.

The Man In The Glass Poem -Reflect on this poem about integrity and living a life true to your values—an ideal closely tied to living what you preach.

Poems of Encouragement - Find words of encouragement that inspire you to lead by example and show kindness through your actions.

Famous Poems - Read timeless works from poets who, like Edgar Guest, share wisdom and inspiration through their verses.

To-morrow We May Be Placed - This poem offers a thought-provoking reflection on how we live our lives, connecting with Guest’s call to live with purpose and example.