You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve righteousness. - James 1:19 (NASB)
I came from a situation where “slow to speak” was a survival skill for my well-being. When a certain person was speaking to me, I learned that my face could not call attention to what was going on in my heart. My mouth could not mutter any first thoughts or words. I had to pray and ask the Lord to help me get a grip on any emotions that would cause me to speak too soon and yield an undesirable outcome. That skill carried over to conversations that were not so threatening. I learned that the Spirit of God will guide me with the time to be silent or speak -if I am sensitive to Him speaking.
God showed me that there are times when I should not answer a fool according to his folly, or I will be also be like him. -Proverbs 26:4 (NASB). In those times I needed Him to set a guard over my mouth. -Psalm 141:3. On the other hand, He is gently leading me through my unpleasant experience, to hear Him and others who are bringing forth His truth. I need the wisdom that comes from knowing Him-to not necessarily be silenced but to use words that help me and others achieve righteousness.
Even before there is a word on my tongue, behold O LORD, You know it all. -Psalm 139:4 (NASB)
When working out our faith to become “slow to speak” Is there something speeding up your desire to speak and not hear? When praying have you been challenged to listen?
This devotion by author, Terrie Miles, is exclusively and solely shared with permission to New Beginnings Church. Any unauthorized printed reproduction, sharing or use of this material is prohibited.
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