Listen Up!

James 1:19 (NKJV)- “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”

     I have found that if you allow people to talk long enough they will reveal to you everything that you really need to know. God gives us great advice through the words recorded in the book of James on this very subject. If we are slow to speak or react but open to listening, it is amazing what we can learn and the trouble we can avoid. Most fast talkers have ulterior motives up their sleeves and try to use quickness of speech to push or sway us to follow their leads. If we listen with intention and remain silent, we allow the Holy Spirit to sharpen our discernment and we will be able to evaluate options with clarity and focused thought. 

     Likewise when corrective criticism comes our way; we must use the same techniques – be open to listen; keep silent to make sure we truly understand the information that is being shared and if what is shared makes us uncomfortable; be slow to get angry or to retaliate. Helpful news may not always come in sweet, digestible packets; sometimes we have to be quiet and take medicine in bitter chunks. Regardless of what is learned it is better to approach all things with our ears and eyes wide open and our mouths shut until the Holy Spirit gives us cause to speak up. 

     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Don’t be distracted – stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn