Brothers, here’s my advice to you: seek to listen above all else, and then when it comes to speaking, think carefully about what you say. Finally, don’t be easily provoked to anger, but remain self-controlled because anger is not God’s way of accomplishing His purposes. (James 1:19-20)
When I consider this verse, this is an area that I definitely need to grow in. So often I am quick to speak – so opinionated that I have something to say it seems like for everything. And really, this is such a problem of pride. Someone who is quick to listen is someone who is humble and cares more about what others think rather than getting their own thoughts across. And as I think about this more, another reason for speaking so quickly is because I’m always wanting to move things along faster. It drives me crazy sometimes when things are processing so slowly, and I have much to do. Pride – it’s my source of speaking first and listening last. It’s also the source of anger – not getting one’s way and getting angry ultimately to achieve a personal objective.
Lord, I pray that I might humble myself in order to listen better, in order to gain patience, and when I speak to encourage and edify.