Be Quick to Listen and Slow to Speak – Beloved Women – April 9, 2019
READ
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. – James 1:19 ESV
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT
In the book of James, the tongue is compared to the rudder of a boat. The rudder is one of the smallest parts on the boat, but it is so important because it directs the course of the boat. Likewise, our tongue is one of the smallest parts of our body, but it has so much control over the direction of our lives. For this reason, the Bible has much to say about how we should use our words.
Our words should uplift, encourage, and edify. (Ephesians 4:29)
We should use soft, and not harsh words. (Proverbs 15:1)
We should be slow to speak. (James 1:19)
Why so much direction over the words of our mouth? Because our words are more powerful than we can handle at times. As power can lead to life, it can also lead to death.
Take a quick inventory of the words you’ve been speaking lately. Are you guilty of complaining, sarcastic hurtful remarks, gossiping, nagging, arguing, or negative words that tear down but don't build up?
I challenge you to make more of a conscious effort today to ensure you are using your words the way God intended.
PRAY
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the power You’ve given me with the words that I use. I pray for wisdom and strength to use my words in a way that aligns with your will, builds up, and does not tear down. In Jesus Christ’s Name, I pray. Amen.
REFLECT
How may you use your words today to glorify God?
CONNECT
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Joy often seems unattainable in times of uncertainty and difficulty. The Bible, however, promises believers a lasting joy from the Lord greater than our circumstances. If you desire to experience joy even in the face of challenges, we invite you to our next video Bible Study series through the book of Philippians called “Relentless Joy.” This study starts on April 15 and you can sign up for free here!
© 2019 by Christina Patterson. All rights reserved.
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