Quick to Listen, Slow to Anger

My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires. 
— James 1:19–20


In a world where rapid reactions are prized and loud voices dominate, James offers a countercultural command: slow down. Listening—truly hearing another person—requires humility and patience. It demands that we value understanding over victory, relationship over rebuttal. Speaking slowly means resisting the urge to fill every silence with our opinion or to respond in the heat of emotion. Being slow to anger does not mean ignoring injustice, but it does mean letting our emotions be guided by God’s Spirit rather than by raw impulse. Human anger, James reminds us, cannot produce the righteousness God desires; in fact, it often deepens division and hardens hearts.

When was the last time you listened to someone with whom you strongly disagreed, not to prepare your counterpoint but to genuinely understand them? How can practicing active listening become a spiritual discipline that strengthens your relationships and witness? What situations or topics most easily stir your anger, and how might you invite the Holy Spirit to reshape your response in those moments?

Today, practice giving someone your undivided attention—whether in person, on the phone, or even in written conversation—and resist the urge to interrupt. As you do, ask God to help you hear not only their words but also the heart behind them. Such intentional listening can be a powerful step toward peace in fractured relationships.


Lord, 

Teach me to listen with patience and humility. Keep me from rushing to speak or letting anger take root in my heart. Shape my responses so that they reflect Your grace and truth, and help me to build bridges through understanding. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

-

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