Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving]…
James 1:19 AMP
As I’ve thought (over and over) about a recent situation that caused hurt feelings and a mild discussion; the Lord laid the above scripture on my heart—again.
This was the second time in five months I found myself having spoken too quickly and not listening intently to what was either being said or implied in the moment. I didn’t do so on purpose and at the time had no idea I had caused so much pain.
I’ve typically been a friend whom others seek out to discuss weighty issues. Being a good listener and encourager are two attributes I strive to possess and give away. So, when I fail to do that, I must ask myself what is the lesson here for me to learn?
As I’ve read and reread James 1:19; I think maybe when around people I know very well, I tend to talk about myself too much. I suppose there exists a comfort level, whereby, I lose a level of discernment that I normally possess when among casual acquaintances. So, the lesson appears to be to make sure I don’t let my relaxed state of mind in conversations, whether among many friends or one, override my awareness of what I’m saying and the sheer quantity of words I’m speaking.
Will Rogers was an actor and a man known for his wit and wisdom and he is one of my favorite fellow Oklahomans. One of Will Rogers’ famous quotes was:
“Never miss a good chance to shut up!”
Agreed.
C. Deni Johnson
October 2022
Right Hand Ministries 