Ears To Hear

There’s an old saying I remember from my childhood: we have two ears and one mouth, so we can speak less and listen more. 

James addresses the issue of anger. When anger rises within us, it doesn’t see the whole story, nor does it have understanding because it is not willing to listen. It doesn’t take time to honour and respect the other person or get their perspective—it’s too busy trying to justify “self."  James says if we listen to God’s word and not do what it says, we are fools or living as though we are deceived.

It is important to live out and obey what God’s word says. There are several ways we receive God’s word: through reading the bible, the preaching of the word, our devotions, prayer, and the still small voice of God. He speaks to us as we dwell in his presence.  Therefore, it can be beneficial for us to practice the spiritual discipline of silence before the Lord and listen for his call to obedience.

Anger is a stumbling block to us living our life in faith. Our words and deeds need to be in alignment, not saying one thing and doing another. When our deeds align with our words, that’s when we are living a life of genuine faith that is Christ centred, and we bless the poor, the widow and orphan.

What are some areas of your life where acts or deeds don’t match your words?

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that your word is truth that it is a mirror to my heart. Today help me be a doer of your word, speaking less and listening more! Use my life to help others and be a blessing. In Jesus’ name, amen.