Listening

Spiritual Vitamin: "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

Challenge: What does this verse say we should be slow to do? Slow to speak and slow to become angry? How slow are you to speak? How slow are you to become angry? It's good to take periodic checks on our behavior. Most all of us can improve in our listening. We're more challenged by others that talk over us or interrupt us than we are to our own listening challenges. Pray that God would help you become a better listener.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this good word from James. I long to be quick to listen, to care for that person talking by actively choosing to listen. Lord, listening communicates loving and that's what I long to do. Help me check myself when I try to get a word in to get my point across. Help me not react quickly in anger, but to respond thoughtfully and in love. Amen.