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. – James 1:19-20
It is often said, there is a reason why God gave you two ears and one mouth. You should listen twice as much as you speak. Introverts may have an easier time listening than their more loquacious peers. However, whatever your temperament, James’ advice is solid.
Besides being slow to speak, James cautions against a quick temper, noting that fleshly anger does not produce the righteousness of God. In other words, anger has the potential to lead to sin against God and hurt those around you. How can you be slow to anger in the heat of the moment when a perceived offense has been committed?
The Mayo Clinic lists the following ten tips for dealing with anger: 1. Think before you speak. 2. Express your concerns once you are calm. 3. Get some exercise. 4. Take a timeout. 5. Identify possible solutions. 6. Stick with “I” statements. 7. Don’t hold a grudge. 8. Use humor to release tension. 9. Practice relaxation skills. 10. Know when to seek help.
It is not a sin to be angry. Jesus was angry when He drove the money changers out of the temple (Matthew 21:12). He was also angry at the Pharisees’ hardness of heart (Mark 3:5). Paul says, “Be angry and do not sin” (Ephesians 4:26). The emotion of anger is not the main issue – your response to it is what matters.
When you take time to listen to others, you build a better understanding and lessen temper flare-ups. Listening is a simple way to obey God’s commandment to love others. Pray for citizens and government officials to increase their listening skills, which will create a greater ability to solve problems harmoniously.
Today’s Verse: James 1:19-20
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Matthew 5:21-24, Proverbs 4:20-24
21 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. 23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
20 My son, be attentive to my words;
incline your ear to my sayings.
21 Let them not escape from your sight;
keep them within your heart.
22 For they are life to those who find them,
and healing to all their flesh.
23 Keep your heart with all vigilance,
for from it flow the springs of life.
24 Put away from you crooked speech,
and put devious talk far from you.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
