Welcome to Take Ten at Ten with Pastor Tony. Today we're going to listen to God's Word in the book of James.
"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls" (James 1:19-21 ESV).
Watch the Devotional
Conversation Leads to Reconciliation
Be Quick to Hear - We need to be active listeners. Don't interrupt and don't plan a rebuttal while listening.
Be Slow to Speak - We should avoid speaking in the heat of the moment. Take time to be calm and pray before responding. Speak in truth in a manner that honors God and the people who are part of the conversation. We shouldn't be silent and ignore what we heard.
Be Slow to Anger - Check our emotions; identify why we're feeling angry. Anger will do more harm than good if it damages relationships. Pray and trust God's Word to help us speak in a manner that encourages further conversation.
We have brothers and sisters in Christ who feel devalued, ostracized, and mistreated. There are fears, hurts, and frustrations. We all bear the image of God, so ask yourself how you can listen intentionally.
- Slow down
- Listen intently
- Speak intentionally
- Check your emotions
- Trust that God is doing what he needs to do.
Practice listening intently and be slow to speak or give way to anger so God is honored and glorified in our lives.
