Scripture: James 1:19-20 (NIV) – “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”

When a parent welcomes their first child into the world, they embark on an incredible journey of joy and discovery. Every milestone becomes a cause for celebration and excitement. As the child grows, parents eagerly track and share their progress, delighting in each new development. These moments of growth are not only precious to the parents but also essential for the child’s well-being and health.

Among these milestones, the ability to communicate through speech holds great importance. As a child learns to form words and express themselves, their world expands, and their interactions with others deepen. Parents eagerly await the first words, cherishing each babble and each attempt to communicate. Before they begin to talk, they spend months listening to their parents and siblings. Then the words begin to flow. We can’t wait for them to speak but do we take the same care to teach them how to listen?

We live in a time where communication channels seem to be constantly buzzing, so it can be challenging to maintain a balanced approach to listening and speaking. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to embrace the wisdom behind God’s design for our ears and mouth. James 1:19-20 reminds us of the importance of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.

God granted us two ears and one mouth, not by chance, but to teach us the valuable lesson of active listening. How often do we find ourselves eagerly waiting for our turn to speak, formulating our response even before the other person finishes sharing? In doing so, we risk missing the true essence of the message conveyed.

One biblical example of someone who embodied this principle is the prophet, Samuel. In 1 Samuel 3, we see Samuel as a young boy serving in the temple of the Lord under the guidance of Eli, the high priest. One night, as Samuel lay down to rest, he heard a voice calling his name. Assuming it was Eli, he ran to him, ready to respond. But Eli recognized that it was the voice of the Lord calling Samuel. He instructed Samuel to return and listen attentively, saying, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:9)

Like Samuel, we must learn to still our hearts and minds, attentive to the voice of God and those around us. As we truly listen, we open our hearts to understanding, compassion, and empathy. Listening more enables us to grasp the unspoken feelings, fears, and joys of others, thereby strengthening our connections and relationships.

Another shining example of a biblical figure who exemplified listening over speaking is Jesus Christ Himself. Throughout His ministry, Jesus took the time to truly hear people’s needs, fears, and sorrows. He listened to the cries of the blind, the lame, and the outcasts of society. Jesus embraced the power of listening, demonstrating the Father’s love through His compassionate ear.

However, listening more does not imply that we never speak; rather, it encourages us to speak with purpose, kindness, and grace. Our words should be a source of encouragement, edification, and truth. Proverbs 15:23 (NIV) says, “A person finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!”

Let us be like the disciples of Jesus, who listened and pondered His teachings in their hearts. They were not quick to speak out of turn, but they listened intently and then proclaimed the Gospel with boldness and love after receiving the Holy Spirit.

Let us remember that God’s design for our ears and mouth is intentional. As we prioritize listening more and speaking less, we emulate Christ’s character and demonstrate the love of God to a world in desperate need of understanding and empathy. May we be quick to listen to God’s voice and the voices of others, slow to speak in anger or haste, and willing to share words of grace and truth when the time is right.

Ask God to help you to embrace the wisdom of listening more and speaking less. Open your ears to hear God’s voice and the needs of those around you. Pray that God will grant you the discernment to use your words for edification and encouragement not to tear others down or discourage. May your life reflect the compassionate heart of Jesus Christ, who listened attentively to those you know and love and most importantly to God.