VERSE: James 1:19-20 – “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”
Pay close attention to the order of the actions in this verse. We are to be fast to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. When we seek to listen, really listen, we often can understand where someone is coming from and find grace to deal with them. However, when we are fast to speak what we are thinking, understanding is often lost and anger emerges. And anger doesn’t demonstrate or create the righteousness of God. We need to seek to understand before ever attempting to comment. Remember, Jesus loves you. You are loved.
Prayer: Jesus, help me to think before I speak and to truly listen so that I understand those around me. Help me to be slow to anger and to spread Your peace. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.