Should we be quick to listen and slow to speak?

Question

James 1:19-21 (N.I.V.)
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for mans anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
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In these verses’ James is attempting to clear the way for our reception of God’s truth. He begins by calling for the readers attention by saying; “take note of this.” Before we can expect the ability to receive or understand God’s Word we must first develop a willingness to listen. Reluctance to listen can further be described as contempt for the word. The ability to listen can be easily obtained with our effort to restrain our speech. The restraint of anger is also demanded because anger closes the mind to God’s truth.

Answer 1

Yes. Good point.
I think a lot of us on YA could take a little more time to think before we respond.

Answer 2

I don't think it has anything to do with 'reception of gods truth'

It means you should listen to your fellow men, take care before you form an opinion and speak out, and don't get angry because angry people suck.

But I'm an atheist, what do I know about scripture. But it would seem this is one of the more sane moral guidelines in there.

Answer 3

The only thing that I can add is that many people don't understand that anger is a CHOICE. We have to learn that nobody can MAKE us angry- it is a reaction we choose. This simple understanding can change your life; it certainly changed mine. We can also choose to be offended or not by the words of another, to be happy or unhappy, we can choose contentment or discontentment and so on. We have a lot more control over our lives than most people realize, because it is easier to blame our circumstances or other people for our troubles than it is to take responsibility for these things ourselves. Peace to you.

Answer 4

My pricey sister.... the declaring is talking in very layman words to a deeper reality.... once you're in an emotional state, your mind would not paintings so properly. So, the advice to stay calm, fairly and in listening mode is more beneficial about holding your suggestions in an area of more beneficial advantageous responsiveness is more beneficial to the point..... ***A lesson to all who prefer to comprehend any and all awareness sayings, sacred textual content and such isn't to be trapped in a strictly floor prognosis of what's being suggested/provided...

Answer 5

I often say that Christians here seem to come for no reason other than to tell lies about others.

This question is an exception to that, and I thank you for posting respectfully and intelligently. Were this the typical believer's post, R&S would be a decent place for discussion.

Answer 6

Yes, and just as being quick to listen, slow to speak allows us to be more receptive to God's word and to greater understanding God, if we apply this principle to all our relationships with others, family, friends, etc. - it will allow us a greater understanding of those people as well.

Answer 7

very much so. we seem to want to get in the last word or out talk the other guy with what we think is a clever or smart answer.We can only truly understand some one if we listen to what they are saying.Then we can respond with accurate answers that make sense.I think that is why there is so much misunderstanding and fighting.Communication makes a;ll the difference no matter what you are trying to get across

Answer 8

My lamp burns bright. I have plenty of oil at my side.
While on this virtual highway, I am always observing.
I am always reading. And I am slow to respond if at all.

Answer 9

It also says if you keep on looking in God's law it will set you free, Amen

Answer 10

that is why we as believers should be transformed by the WORD of GOD, not conformed to the world