Quick to Listen and Slow to Speak - The Crosswalk Devotional - September 6

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Quick to Listen and Slow to Speak
By Megan J. Conner

Bible Reading:
“Brothers and sisters, let every person be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” - James 1:19 (NIV)

How many of us have heard this scripture and felt immediate conviction? I know I have – absolutely, 100%! I long to embody these humble sentiments, but I find myself more often than not falling short – very short. Perhaps you feel the same. Why is it that many of us struggle with quiet spirits, closed mouths, and open ears?

The Book of James is one that challenges me and cuts straight to the heart in several passages (James 1:1, anyone?). Not one to mince words, James just comes right out and boldly declares we should all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. He goes on to say that the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.  In other words, our actions outside of this mandate counteract the work of the gospel in the lives of those around us.  Ouch!  So, my lack of patience with the airport personnel who just announced my flight was delayed again, thus producing the loss of my luggage again, is not pleasing to the Lord no matter how justified I feel?   When I take a breath and calm down, my logical brain can clearly analyze the disconnect. However, because my reaction to a frustrating situation is immediate, my analytical brain is overrun by my heightened emotional state.

What about when someone in my family comes to me to share a question or concern and I not only fail to listen, but I jump in with a quick solution completely bypassing their feelings so I can check off the next box on my list? I love my family and it is never my desire to harm them in any way, yet how easy it is to instantly react in such a manner and miss out on a possible opportunity to show them my love and the love of Christ?

Right before our focus scripture today is an explanation from James on how and why we should be held accountable for our actions and reactions.  

“Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures,” (James 1:16-18, ESV).

Our loving, benevolent Father gave us every perfect and good gift so that we might represent Him to those around us. He brought us forth by the word of truth so that we would produce fruit that bears His image. If we are His image-bearers here on earth then how we act and react is directly connected to how others view His nature and character.

If you are anything like me, then the reflection of this scripture against our hearts looks marred and messy at best.  However, our Heavenly Father knows we have fallen short and will fall short again and again. Thank you, Jesus, for the grace and mercy of the gospel. Jesus paid the full price for our sins and covers our failings with His sacrifice. But this grace does not excuse us from accountability to His commands. The Word of God is called a double-edged sword that cuts bone and marrow (find quote).   Direct declarations, like this one, cut straight to our hearts purposefully so that we might recognize areas where we are not walking well with the Lord.

If that is you today (it certainly is me), then let us receive the compassionate correction from Him who loves us.  Let us heed His word and value the lessons He is teaching us through the words of James. Lord, would you help each of us today to welcome a quietness of spirit, to be SLOW to react and QUICK to listen? Would you help us grow in gentleness so that we can properly reflect Your goodness to those closest to us?

Intersecting Faith & Life:

Take some time today for reflection. Quiet your mind and your body.  Then, ask the Lord to reveal to you instances when you have struggled to really listen to those around you, or when a lack of patience produced an angry response (well passive or active). Consider adding the simple pray above to your daily time with the Lord. Let’s believe together, that He will hear the cry of our hearts and foster a spirit of gentleness in each of us.

Further Reading:
Ephesians 4:26-32
James 3

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/ ljubaphoto 

Megan J. Conner is an author, editor, speaker, avid consumer of literature, writing consultant, and overall lover of all things creative!  She is passionate about the written word and compelling storytelling. Whether that is through imaginative and whimsical children’s literature or faith-based works that allow readers to be immersed in narratives of authentic faith shared through the lives of imperfect people, Megan hopes to remind audiences of the beauty and power of shared stories.

To read more from Megan, check out her Blog, Just One More Chapter.  If you would like to connect further with Megan, you can discover more on her Website, on Facebook, or Instagram.

Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com! 

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