James 1:19

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

• Relationships
• Wisdom
• Patience
• Listening
• Anger

Have you been in the company of someone who loves to express his opinions, talks impulsively, and wants to be heard at all times? What was your impression of them? Those who are vocal about expressing themselves and seem to disregard other people's views can be seen as arrogant, full of themselves, and show off. They are perceived as inconsiderate and disrespectful of the feelings of others. People like this don't make great communicators because they talk all the time. When we talk less and listen more, we have a better understanding of the other person's view and earn his or her respect because he or she is heard.
In the context of the above verse, God wants believers to behave and respond differently during times of conflict. As humans, we have the natural inclination to say more and listen less when we are infuriated. We tend to speak hurtful words when emotions are on the rise, thereby damaging relationships. God wants us to be disciplined in the use of our words and learn to exercise patience before reacting. Several verses of the Bible advise us about being people of few words (Ecclesiastes 5:2, Proverbs 17:27-28).
One is considered wise and understanding when he refrains from speaking. When we allow others to express themselves, it's not just a sense of being polite but a display of God's love and wisdom. Cultivating the art of active listening and less speaking keeps us in control of our emotions and actions and helps us remain in the will of God.

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