The most valuable joy and deepest pain stem from our relationships. The words we use can be a lighthouse to those around us or they can be a stench echoing in our minds. Woefully, once we have spoken hurtful words to someone we cannot take them back. The devastating effect on another person usually leaves them scarred, making it hard for them to forgive. Without humility, kind and thoughtful words, it’s more difficult for forgiveness to take place.

So then my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear slow to speak, slow to wrath. James 1:19 NKJV

So how do we apply this scripture to our lives?

Waiting patiently for the other person to finish speaking or yelling! Our natural temptation is to respond quickly even if the person hasn’t finished speaking yet. I’ve learned that actively listening to a person’s words without irritation shows the person that you honestly care about them. Their tone of voice and facial expressions also reveal actually how upset, angry, or frustrated the person is. Acknowledging this makes it easier for us to know how we should respond. Yelling back, rolling our eyes, and rudely interrupting them only escalate the matter to unhealthy levels. However, during our time of, swift to hear and slow to speak, we can ask God for wisdom. We can also say a little prayer that may be on your heart. This will help us be prepared to respond without anger and without stirring up greater anger in the other person.

A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1 NKJV

Are your words tearing down your most valuable relationships?
Do you speak the same way your non-believing friend does?
Are your responses impulsive?
Do you snap at your parents or children when you are too busy for them?

Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-james-1-19-our-words-matter