Good morning!

An angry and hasty spirit has been the downfall of many people. That can happen if they are Christian or not.

When anger shows up and joins the conversation, reason, and civility usually leave the discussion quickly. Once those two have left, the chance for productive talk to still happen quickly ends as anger steps up to take over the conversation.

James advises that we need to keep our ears and hearts open to better hear God. When we do that, we put ourselves in a position to hear the other person out (Regardless of who is right or wrong) and show an ability to remain calm and successfully navigate a potential dispute. Disputes that when examined later, were often not worth arguing over.

If you tend to find yourself in many disagreeable moments, try slowing down and examining yourself to ensure you are utilizing the Christ-like model referred to in verses James 19-20.

Remember, the Holy Spirit will never lead us to regret words He would have us say. However, words we speak in a fit of anger from our flesh often end up being words we wish we could take back but can’t.

It is true that what James says to do is often easier said than done. That is why we are told in many scriptures, for example Romans 13:14, what we can and must do to combat our carnal tendencies and apply Godly wisdom where needed.

Let us strive this daily to move more slowly and, therefore more wisely when it comes down to the words we let leave out of our mouths.

Ecclesiastes 9:17 – The words of the wise are heard in quiet, more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.