Scripture Meditation

Know this, my beloved brothers: 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. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
James 1:19-22

Today’s Thought

We live in a fast-paced world that wants everything instantly. We don’t want to wait a week for a new episode to come out. We want to binge it all right now. We want free two-day shipping. We want immediate retribution, especially online. It’s easy to live the inversion of James 1: to be quick to anger, quick to speak, and slow to listen. We justify these actions under the guise of truth, but the reality is often a cover for anger over opinions. Instead, we should seek to understand others first, and if they are wrong, we should correct, using words of love rather than anger. Jesus was clear that we should correct other believers by going to them first in private. The goal is to build up others in love rather than tear them down in anger, which does not produce righteousness.

Prayer

Lord, give me an understanding heart that listens first to others. Let my words to others be those of love and encouragement, even in situations of rebuke and correction. Help me to take the time to choose my words carefully.