“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
We live in a world that loves to talk. Opinions are shared instantly, debates flare up quickly, and silence is often filled with the next thing we want to say. But in all the noise, have we forgotten the power of listening?
Scripture reminds us again and again that listening is not just a skill—it’s a reflection of wisdom, humility, and love. James 1:19 urges us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” Why? Because listening isn’t passive; it’s an active way of valuing others. When we truly listen, we are saying, You matter. Your words are important. I want to understand you.
Jesus was the ultimate example of this. Though He had all wisdom and authority, He took time to listen—to the blind man calling out for mercy, to the woman at the well, to the disciples who struggled to understand. He never rushed past people’s words but met them with compassion, truth, and grace.
Good listening deepens relationships. It fosters unity instead of division. It opens the door for understanding and healing. And perhaps most importantly, it teaches us to listen to God. When we slow down and quiet our hearts, we make space to hear His voice guiding us, comforting us, and shaping us.
In a world that urges us to speak first, may we instead choose to listen—deeply, patiently, and with love. Because sometimes, the greatest gift we can give is simply our ears, our attention, and our willingness to truly hear.
Thank God He is eager to listen to us. May we offer the same for others.
“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.” – Psalm 116:1-2