“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”( James 1:19)
“Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.” (Proverbs 18:13)
I want to be quick to hear (and understand), very slow to speak up about things (waiting until I’m sure I understand what I’m responding to), and even slower to anger, remembering to humble myself and trust God. I need to ask the Holy Spirit for help so I’ll say only what builds up and is beneficial to the hearer (Ephesians 4:29).
Lord Jesus, please teach me to “speak the truth in love,” not “speak the truth in angry answers to questions people haven’t asked.” Amen. (See Ephesians 4:15.)
(Scripture quotes are New Living Translation)
Listen Then Talk
Filed under Christian, Christian Living, Scripture Thoughts
Such a good post! We can learn so much more (from others and ourselves) when are quiet and really listen. Thinking before acting is equally important too. 🙂 Thanks for this great topic!
Thanks for reading and commenting, Valerie. God bless you as you follow Jesus.
Tricia
It is so hard for us to be quick to listen because we would rather be quick to talk. When we find ourselves in a difference of opinion with someone we start planning our response to what is being said while only partially listening. Sometimes if we take the time to listen we will realize there isn’t a need for words. Be blessed today and find a way to bless someone else!
You are so right, Shelly! Thanks for commenting.
May you also be blessed and be a blessing.
Tricia
Amen! Blessings, Natalie 🙂
Blessings back. 🙂
Tricia
We tend to be quick at speaking then listening
Too true!
A very good reminder.
Always a needed reminder for me at least. 🙂