These words from James are simple to read, but they are often difficult to live. In our conversations with family, friends, coworkers, and even fellow believers, we are often quick to speak and slow to listen. We may react before we understand, and we may allow our emotions to control our words. God reminds us that a Christlike spirit begins with listening.
Being swift to hear means more than simply hearing another person’s words. It means listening with compassion, patience, and a desire to understand. Many misunderstandings could be avoided if we took the time to truly listen before responding.
Being slow to speak reminds us that our words have great power. A few careless words can wound a heart, while a few gracious words can encourage a weary soul. Before we speak, we should ask ourselves, “Will these words honor the Lord?”
Being slow to wrath is perhaps the greatest challenge of all. Anger can cloud our judgment and damage relationships. James reminds us that “the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” When we surrender our emotions to the Lord, His peace replaces our frustration, and His wisdom guides our response.
This truth also applies to our relationship with God. We need to be swift to hear His voice through His Word, slow to tell Him how we think things should be done, and slow to become discouraged or frustrated when His answers do not come as quickly as we desire. God is always working, even when we cannot see it.
None of us can live this way in our own strength. It is only through daily time in God’s Word and the power of the Holy Spirit that we can become better listeners, wiser speakers, and calmer servants of Christ.
Today, let’s ask the Lord to help us listen more carefully, speak more graciously, and respond more like Jesus. As we yield ourselves to Him, our relationships with others—and with God—will grow stronger each day.
Center for Evangelists 
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