“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
When we are slow to speak and intentional about listening for understanding (see the previous two posts), we can make more accurate and informed judgments about every situation we face.
We’re making judgements all the time. Judgements based upon our past experience, current perceptions, filter of the world, emotional state… And sometimes our judgement or our interpretation of the situation is skewed.
Being slow to anger means:
- being sure about the facts
- giving others the benefit of the doubt
- waiting for wisdom
- clearing away bias
- not picking fights
Being slow to anger does NOT mean:
- putting up with injustice
- ignoring a problem
- suffering in silence
- not creating boundaries
- giving bad behavior a pass
We’re slow to speak so we can listen to understand. We listen to understand so we can be purposeful and loving with our words. We’re purposeful and loving with our words so that when anger is justified, we do not sin (Ephesians 4:26).