Listen More Than You Speak

Scripture: James 1:19-20 (NRSV): You must understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, ²⁰ for human anger does not produce God’s righteousness.

Devotional Thought:You ever been in a conversation and knew the other person was just waiting for their turn to talk? Yeah, so don’t be that person.

James 1:19 says, “Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.” That’s divine timing. In a world where everyone’s yelling, listening is a radical act of love.

Good social skills aren’t about charm, they’re about connection. It takes patience to really hear people and self-control to not interrupt them with your intrusive thoughts or even great feedback. Let them get it out! Listening builds trust. It heals. And it reflects a God who always hears us, even when we ramble.

Emotional Intelligence Focus: Social Skills

Reflection Question:Where in your relationships do you need to practice being a better listener?

Prayer:Lord, quiet my spirit when I want to jump in. Give me ears to hear and a heart to understand. Let my words bring life and my silence bring peace. Make me a person people feel safe talking to. In Jesus’ name, Amen.