Read:

Ecclesiastes 7:9 "Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools."

James 1:19-20 "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."

Think:

We all have said something that we regret. Have you ever texted someone and wished you could hit unsend after you thought about it? Or you posted on Instagram or Facebook a quick quip responding to an irritant and then had second thoughts? Maybe you sent a scathing email and then wished you could delete it?

Unfortunately, words expressed can’t be taken back. That is why James and Solomon tell us to hit pause before we respond. These authors of Scripture instruct us to allow a Holy Spirit-led conscience, instead of circumstances, to dictate our verbiage. Instead of spouting whatever pops into our minds and ignoring the carnage of our words, we should ask God to help us pause. Practice patience to try to understand situations and discern the best way to respond. That is the path to change the world.

Apply:

Take control of your emotions, thoughts, and actions. Today, pause before you respond to a situation or the people around you. Let your words be filled with his truth and love.

Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, mold me into the person you want me to be so that my words may impart life and encouragement to others. Forgive me, Lord, for the words that have not been acceptable in your sight, and help me to walk in your love so that I can be a light in this dark world. Amen.