James 1:19-20 “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” – NIV
We hear so much every now and then in life. Some are false accussations, compliments, destructive criticisms and so on. What we hear elicits responses in us. Our emotions may get aroused and we get excited or angry. We may burst out in anger yelling at whoever and whatever or feel good about ourselves. We make decisions and take actions out of what we hear, some short term, others long term, with life time and even eternal consequences. Many are living in bitter regrets, others lost lives, and others in prisons – because of brief emotional outbursts.
We have all at one point or another been provoked by what we heard, and the temptation and desire for revenge was real. The emphasis to be slow to speak and act in anger teaches the effect of hurriedly spoken words and revengeful anger. Both of these can do so much harm to us and our relationships with others that may never be repaired. It’s important to rethink about what we hear, whether there is truth or not. If true, the issue then should be how can I rectify it. If it’s false, why should it take away my peace. By thoughtfully turning what we heard first to ourselves, what was meant to hurt us ends up building our character and helping instead of harming. Any response out of such approach leaves us calm and peaceful.
The scripture above says any response out of hot temper and rushed words does not glorify God. That’s why this caution was given to enable us take heed how we process what we hear and to control the negative effects. May God, by the Holy Spirit, help us be quick to listen, but slow to speak and be angry.
Shalom children of God.