James 1:19 NIV (New International Version)
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,

In my lifetime, I’ve heard the words “be quick to listen and slow to speak” so many times, I can’t even count. And I’m grateful that I have, as in this short scripture lies a lot of wisdom that everyone should know and follow.

When some become angry–which in my case, isn’t often–it can be tempting to do or say something that they shouldn’t. All this is is the devil knocking on a door; trying to destroy a relationship, an opportunity, or the peace in our homes and hearts that he doesn’t want us to have. But just like any knock, it’s up to us to choose whether or not we will answer the door.

The Bible says “Refrain from anger” In other words, it is telling us to think before we act and speak out of that anger. God is slow to anger. And as followers of Christ, its important that we follow in His footsteps.

Now, keep in mind that its normal to be angry sometimes, specifically when we are wronged or deceived. While we should be slow to anger, being angry is not the only factor of this equation. It is also how we act even in our anger and how long we allow the anger to effect us.

Ephesians 4:26-27 NIV (New International Version)
26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold.

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Okay, okay, so let’s wrap up this addition to Words of Wisdom with some key points:

We, followers of Christ should…

• be quick to listen and slow to speak: we need to listen–and think–before we act.
• refrain from anger: no matter what, we should be slow to become angry.
• NOT sin in our anger: even when we may get angry, we must NOT sin.
• NOT give the devil a foothold: just because he knocks doesn’t mean we have to answer. DON’T answer that door. Instead, we need to follow God’s path for us.
• NOT let the sun go down while we are angry: this means we also need to learn to let go of our anger and learn to forgive.

Remember that it is a wonderful, and crucial, thing to ask God for help if you struggle with refraining from acting out of anger and being slow to speak but quick to listen. I find myself asking Him for wisdom, too. As long as we humble ourselves enough to admit that we need Him, and we obey His words, He is always able and willing to help us in all things that will give Him ALL of the glory.

Have a happy, healthy, beautiful and blessed day, y’all!

And remember, God is Love. ✨