Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. – James 1:19-20
It is often said, there is a reason why God gave you two ears and one mouth. You should listen twice as much as you speak. Introverts may have an easier time listening than their more loquacious peers. However, whatever your temperament, James’ advice is solid.
Besides being slow to speak, James cautions against a quick temper, noting that fleshly anger does not produce the righteousness of God. In other words, anger has the potential to lead to sin against God and hurt those around you. How can you be slow to anger in the heat of the moment when a perceived offense has been committed?
The Mayo Clinic lists the following ten tips for dealing with anger:
1. Think before you speak.
2. Express your concerns once you are calm.
3. Get some exercise.
4. Take a timeout.
5. Identify possible solutions.
6. Stick with “I” statements.
7. Don’t hold a grudge.
8. Use humor to release tension.
9. Practice relaxation skills.
10. Know when to seek help.
It is not a sin to be angry. Jesus was angry when He drove the money changers out of the temple (Matthew 21:12). He was also angry at the Pharisees’ hardness of heart (Mark 3:5). Paul says, “Be angry and do not sin” (Ephesians 4:26).
The emotion of anger is not the main issue – your response to it is what matters.
When you take time to listen to others, you build a better understanding and lessen temper flare-ups. Listening is a simple way to obey God’s commandment to love others.
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