The language of women

The Language of Women

By Autumn R. Finklea

As women, we can say a lot without uttering a word.

Our facial expressions and body language often do all the talking. Have you ever given your child that one look—the one that instantly reminded them you mean business? On the other hand, the gentleness in your eyes can communicate that you care.

A Silent Connection

Several years ago, a woman and her family moved into our neighborhood. We frequently waved and smiled in passing until one day, the doorbell rang. It was my neighbor, holding a dish she had prepared.

During this exchange, we traded smiles, and as I expressed gratitude, I realized—through her response—that she didn’t speak English.

Here we were: two women filled with joy, neighborly love, and generosity, leaning into our actions and body language to speak for us. We still exchange smiles, food, and kindness today.

When Words Fall Short

This moment reminded me that actions truly speak louder than words.

It’s the same with our prayer life. Sometimes, we simply don’t have the words. In those moments, we can sit, stand, or kneel in God’s presence and let Him love us. The Holy Spirit intercedes and prays for us—even when our hearts can’t form the words.

Reflect

What story do you tell others with your body language?

What is one way you can be intentional about showing you care—without words?

Power Verses

1 John 3:18 AMP

Little children (believers, dear ones), let us not love [merely in theory] with word or with tongue [giving lip service to compassion], but in action and in truth [in practice and in sincerity, because practical acts of love are more than words].

Romans 8:26 NLT

And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.