Mature Reactions
Slow to Speak – Part 2

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:25-32

Key Verse: James 1:19

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry

We ended yesterday’s devotional looking at the Apostle Paul’s challenge to not let any unwholesome words come out of our mouths (Ephesians 4:29).  The original Greek word that Paul used for “unwholesome” adds the concept of foul or abusive language, as the NLT translates this verse.  Christ followers are to discipline that which is spoken from their mouths.  We are to limit our speech to only that which would be helpful for encouraging those we are speaking to!  To accomplish this, we must do what James tells us to do: Be slow to speak.

I have said for years, our first thoughts about anything are seldom the right thoughts.  Christ followers are still human and the flesh is quick to speak, which will almost always come from a selfish or spiteful view point when dealing with tough issues.  However, if we determine to slow our response, Christ followers can give the Holy Spirit time to fill our mind with divine wisdom and grace.  When that happens, our words will then come out positive, full of grace and helpful, never abusive!  Ask God to help you slow down your response to tough situations where it would be easy to give a quick unwholesome response!

We’ve been talking about mature reactions.  How would you rate yourself?  When someone says something or does something that doesn’t set well with you, how have you been reacting?  God wants us, as His children, to mature in this critical area!

Father, I will do my best not to give my first gut reaction when I feel offended by someone.  Grant me strength in this area.  In Jesus’ name, amen.