Good news?

My husband came home from his men's retreat repeating a phrase from one of the speakers:  "We need to be 'good news' before we can share 'good news.'"  So true!  How can we expect people to listen to what we have to say if our lives are in conflict with what we're saying?  For example:

• If I'm a chronic complainer, why would anyone think I have some 'good news' for them?
• If I'm a habitual liar, why would anyone take the time to listen to my story?
• If I'm arrogant, how can I demonstrate humility by apologizing to a total stranger?
• If I'm an exaggerator, who could trust me with the basic facts about salvation?
• If I'm a gossiper, who could trust that I'm not simply telling them what they want to hear?
• If I'm a racist, why would anyone believe the reality that Jesus loved all and died for all?

Yes, our lives need to match up with what we proclaim.  Jesus said in Matthew 23:28, "Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy."  How's your heart looking?  Full of good news I hope.