Encouraging Truths for Senior Living: Heart not Harsh
Practical devotional thoughts written by Doug Beyer, Atherton Resident since 2011
James 1:19-20
Remember this, my dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry. Human anger does not achieve God’s righteous purpose.
Questions for reflection:
- What am I angry about today?
- How will I express my anger?
Thought for today:
Certain Christian leaders when James wrote his epistle were speaking, perhaps preaching, with more anger than kindness. They were going through life pushed by their fear instead of being pulled by their hope. Their “No” was louder than their “Yes.” (See 2 Corinthians 1:17-20.) What they were against was more important than what they were for. James makes it clear that harsh, vindictive speech, even in the name of God, does not “achieve God’s righteous purpose,” i.e., does not make things right. Anger makes us the judge, instead of God.
People today don’t care how much you know, but they will know how much you care by the way you listen. So be quick to hear what they have to say and slow to respond in anger.
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