James 1:19, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak..."

Think

Speed Up & Slow Down What an interesting verse today's verse is! God is telling us to communicate with people in terms of speed... going faster and going slower. He wants us to rush as fast as we can to really listen to others and slow down to a snail's pace when choosing to speak. Why? Because following this advice is one of the greatest ways we can show others how valuable they are. Most of us who are parents have said, "God gave us two ears to listen and only one mouth to talk!" This means we should double our listening and cut our speaking in half. It's great advice because it's when we listen that we learn. Another byproduct of listening is that people pay more attention to what we say if we pay more attention to what they say. Everyone we connect with deserves our total observation, full concentration and complete consideration. Therefore, as James advises, we must make every effort to be "quick to listen and slow to speak."

 

Act

Today, cut your speaking in half and double your listening. You will be amazed by the difference it makes in all your conversations. And as you listen, look the other person in the eyes to indicate you are giving them your full attention.

 

Pray

God, you are the ultimate listener! When I pray, I know you hear every word I say. Thank you for never being out to lunch, on vacation, or putting me on hold. Help me improve my listening so that I can truly hear your voice and speak life into all my conversations. I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.