MONDAY November 18, 2019
Swift to Hear, Slow to Anger
So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
James 1:19-20
Christians should reflect Christ because they are the firstfruits of His creation (James 1:18). We are to be Christ-like in our actions and words. The Apostle James addressed a problematic area that people all have to deal with in their lives. James taught about the importance of listening before a person opens their mouth to speak. I love this! It is much better to hear than to speak. It is good to be a Christian who is self-controlled––slow to anger. Yet most people will speak more than listen.
How often we are so quick to speak and slow to hear. Be careful! Do not speak hastily. You do not want to open your mouth and say something that you will have to take back. You better think before you speak. Digest your thoughts; then if you still want to say what is on your mind, go ahead, but always consider the consequences.
When you pause to hear someone, you are allowing God to clear and cleanse your mind before you speak. Then, when you do speak, you will say things that are edifying, using words that build up and that do not tear down. It is alright for you to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
When we are angry and bitter––in the wrath of man––we say and do things to get even with someone. The results are not good; it does not produce the righteousness of God––it takes away from it. Our words can hurt people emotionally. God is love, and He wants us to love people––bottom line.
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.
~Psalm 141:3~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!