"The Call to Listen and Respond"

22 August 2025 Daily Devotion: "The Call to Listen and Respond" James 1:19-20 New Century Version 19 My dear brothers and sisters, always be willing to listen and slow to speak. Do not become angry easily, 20 because anger will not help you live the right kind of life God wants. It doesn't take much to set some people off. A difference of opinion over politics, parenting, or pizza can quickly lead to angry words, hurt feelings, and broken relationships. If you've spent any time around an angry person or if you'veever been the angry person, you're aware that angry people are not joyful people. James, Paul (Titus 1:7), and Solomon (Proverbs 15:18; 16:32; 19:11) all warn God's people to be slow to anger. A joyful spirit is a mark of a person who's learned to overlook an offense, to choose grace over a grudge, and to reject everyopportunity to be offended. Anger, just like worry, is a choice. If anger is an issue for you, ask God to help you let it go. There's a beautiful rhythm to a joyful life and it's quick, slow, slow. Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.