“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

— James 1:19 (NIV)

Most people hear this verse and immediately focus on the “slow to anger” part. But I want to challenge you today to pause and look at the first command in that verse:

👉 Be quick to listen.

That’s not just a suggestion. It’s the first step in preventing the problems that come from being quick to speak or quick to get angry.

If you’re struggling with outbursts, misunderstandings, or tension in your relationships—it might not be an anger issue. It might be a listening issue.

Listening is an act of humility. When we truly listen—without planning our reply, defending ourselves, or brushing off someone’s pain—we honor the person in front of us. And we position ourselves to respond with wisdom, not reaction.

Sometimes your spouse isn’t just talking—they’re pleading to be heard. Sometimes a brother’s anger isn’t about you at all—it’s about what’s eating him up inside. But you won’t know unless you listen.

Listening sets the tone. It slows your speech. It tames your temper. It shifts your spirit.

So today, start there. Be quick to listen—and let everything else flow from that posture.

🙏 Lord, teach us to be quick to listen, not just with our ears—but with our hearts. Let that be the wellspring of peace in our words and our reactions.

 

-Rev Carlos Figueroa