“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” (James 1:19-20 NIV1984).
We must not only listen to God’s Word; we must be doers of His Word. The one “who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it — he will be blessed in what he does” (James 1:25). Moses told the Israelites to “…choose life… that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him…” (Deut. 30:19-20). This is an imperative statement for all who desire to be obedient to God.
“Quick to listen” alsoapplies to our interactions with others. It is important that we listen intently to someone talking to us. Too often, we interrupt to give our own thoughts. “He who answers before listening — that is his folly and his shame” (Prov. 18:13). We should allow a person to finish what she is saying, making an earnest attempt to understand her position or opinion. Solomon made this bold statement. “A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions” (Prov. 18:2). Listening before inserting our own thoughts shows that we value the speaker and her message. An attentive listener tries not to allow distractions to divert from the conversation at hand. When the eyes are focused elsewhere, it is not difficult to notice when a person is no longer interested in what is being said.
Being “slow to speak” sometimes takes practice. We speak without thinking, assuming things of which we have no knowledge. It is important to pause and contemplate what we are going to say, realizing the impact our words might have. Are they cynical and condemning or gracious and uplifting? There is a time to talk and a time to be quiet (Eccl. 3:7). “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise” (Prov. 10:19). When we heed God’s words, we will be more careful in what we say. “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply — how good is a timely word” (Prov. 15:23). Paul reminds us “…to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men” (Titus 3:1-2).
“Slow to anger” implies self-control, not taking offense easily, and not allowing minor irritations to turn into sinful anger. “A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense” (Prov. 19:11).
We live in an angry culture where people resent rules and regulations. They operate on verbal and physical abuse and destruction of property. With little provocation and no remorse — murder means nothing to them. We live in a godless society that desperately needs to know God.
Christians must practice self-control. “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless” (James 1:26). A close relationship with God will keep us aware of how we should live in an evil world. “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few” (Eccl. 5:2). God expects righteous communication as part of our reasonable service to Him.
