May 18
Slow to Speak,
Slow to Anger
James 1:19
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
Daily Steps
Impulsive reactions are a primary cause of relational damage and lost peace. This verse provides the new believer with a timeless, three-part instruction for practicing relational harmony: be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.
The peace in this discipline is found in its ordered timing:
Prioritize Listening: "Quick to listen" places the focus outside of yourself. It requires humility and attentiveness to truly understand the other person's perspective before formulating your own response. This validation alone often de-escalates tension.
Restrain Speech: "Slow to speak" provides a crucial pause between hearing and responding. This space prevents reactionary, regretted words and allows you to process the gentle answer (Day 137). It is the act of engaging your mind and the Holy Spirit before your mouth.
Control Anger: The reason for the first two steps is clear: "slow to become angry." When you listen quickly and speak slowly, you give your emotions time to settle, thereby preventing rash anger from destroying the opportunity for peace.
Your relational peace is secured by disciplined timing. When you commit to this order—hearing first, speaking second, and delaying anger—you ensure that your communication builds bridges, rather than burning them.
Reflective Question
In your most difficult relationship, which part of this sequence do you most often violate (listening poorly, speaking too quickly, or becoming angry too fast)? How can you commit to focusing on that specific area today to secure peace?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my impatience in communication. I am often quick to speak and quick to anger, which destroys harmony. I pray for the discipline to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry today. May Your Spirit guide my mind in this process, ensuring that my interactions are peace-filled and honoring to You. Amen.
