Slow

Hey, Y'all,

Meant to get this out while at NAF El Centro a couple of days ago (yes, it was time once again to visit "The Pearl of the Desert") but it turned out to be a crazy busy couple of days. Nevertheless, here we go...

So, maybe you're thinking the Bible is just an outdated collection of random weird stories...maybe you're thinking it has nothing to say to somewhat jaded 21st-century people who've seen it all and heard it all before...

Check this out (it's based on a couple of conversations I've had recently well as a thought from PurposeDrivenLife.com).

The Bible says we should be quick to listen (and slow to speak). In fact, here's what it says in James 1:19 -- "...Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry …." Hmmm...kinda thinkin' that it'd be nice if I kept that little tidbit handy a little more often, eh?

Here are three things that hinder our ability to hear what others are saying:

1) Presumption is when you think you already know what the other person is going to say. Yet, the Bible says, "He who answers before listening–-that is his folly and his shame." Proverbs 18:13

2) Impatience is when you interrupt and jump to conclusions: "There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking." Proverbs 29:20

3) Pride is when you become defensive and unteachable: "The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice." Proverbs 12:15

And here's the parting shot for today--yep, yet another irrelevant word: "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1

Hmmm...so how true were those?!?

You've been prayed for today...