When To Speak UpSample

Slow down if you’re angry

Maybe it’s right to speak up, but you’re in the wrong frame of mind to do it. You’re burned up with anger and you’re ready to let loose. If this is true, then it’s probably wiser for you to hold your tongue for the moment. Take time to calm down and gather more information. Another moment will come when you can speak without anger, and in that moment your message will be better received.

James gives this advice in practical terms, “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19). When your emotions are running high, it’s time to slow down and listen. Imagine pumping the breaks or pressing an internal pause button. Listening is a great way to do this. According to James, the practice of speaking up needs to be equally balanced with the practice of listening.

Listening to other people at work – trying to identify with their thoughts and motivations – can help you understand a problem more fully. Maybe you were wrong about laying blame. Or maybe you were right, and now you know the right person to talk to about it. Either way, if you take the time to listen and reflect before you speak, your words may have a greater impact.

Prayer: God, help me listen with humility. Help me reflect calmly. Help me speak up at the right time.

Option for Further Exploration: Read The Wise Worker Guards the Tongue (Proverbs)