Faith In Action: A Matter of the Heart - Living Free - October 1
Faith In Action: A Matter of the Heart
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Scripture
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1:19 NIV
Thoughts for the Day
Our words can heal or destroy, encourage or wound. James urges us to listen more and talk less, because human anger never produces God’s righteousness. In heated conversations, we often defend our pride rather than preserve the relationship.
Listening shows humility. It acknowledges that others’ perspectives matter. It opens space for God’s truth to shine instead of our frustration. When we bridle our tongues, we reflect the self-control of the Spirit and create opportunities for reconciliation.
Anger itself is not always sin—Jesus displayed righteous anger at injustice—but uncontrolled anger fueled by selfishness damages our witness and relationships. The heart is the wellspring of our words. Guarding our hearts means guarding our speech.
Consider This . . .
When was the last time your quick words caused harm? How would that situation have looked different if you had listened first and spoken later?
Lord, tame my tongue. Guard my heart against selfish anger. Teach me to listen with compassion, to speak with gentleness, and to reflect Your love in every conversation. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to You today. In Jesus name...
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