“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:” James 1:19.

We’ve all been in conversations with someone who insists on having the last word, believing their opinion is always right—and at times, we may be guilty of it ourselves. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1.

How can we avoid having this kind of attitude? The Bible encourages us to remain faithful, obedient, and humble, especially in hard times: “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:” James 1:19.

When we trust God, the Holy Spirit helps us learn when to listen and when to speak. If we really believe God is in control, we can slow down, try to understand others, and respond with respect and care.

When we feel the need to prove ourselves, we are really feeling a lack of control. For a moment, we have lost sight of the fact that God is the One in control. So, we tend to spout off from the mouth or shoot from the hip, as my parents used to say, the mind is slowed down and closed off to any positive input from others.

Let’s be honest-when we are focused on being heard and understood above all else, it is a ploy to get what we want. This is not the behavior that reflects a beloved child of God. “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” Romans 12:3.

As children of the light, we are to humbly value others above ourselves. “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3.

My friends, let us, as scripture instructs, be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath—responding with kindness, respect, and love. “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 12:18.

We don’t have to have the last word. Why? Because God is in control! Romans 8:28 remains true: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” 

God bless you all. May you carry these lessons into your daily life, trusting that by following His wisdom, you will find deeper peace, stronger relationships, and fulfillment in His purpose each day.