In this world there are very few who are quick to listen. Instead, we interrupt with our own stories or thoughts, lose focus on what is being said, or are quick to become angry and say things we will regret. James 1:19-20 tells us, “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” How can we be like Jesus and be better communicators?
Maybe someone you know comes to mind when you think of a person who exemplifies this verse. My father-in-law comes to mind when I hear this verse. He does not say much. In fact, I wasn’t sure that he talked at all, but the longer I have known him, the more I have seen this verse play out in his life. He is a man of few words who speaks when he has something to say, and when he does, it is graced with the wisdom from the Bible and years of experience. We should all strive to be like this. If we are quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry, imagine what our relationships will be like! Imagine what our families will be like!
We can be good examples for both the Christian community and the lost when we choose to live in this way. But it is a choice. We must choose the things we say and do very carefully so we can reflect God’s love.