Winning God’s Way: Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak, Slow to Anger*

In a world that rewards quick comebacks and heated reactions, James 1:19–20 offers a radically different approach—quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Pastor Chris unpacks the dangers of unchecked anger, the wisdom of careful words, and the peace that comes from truly hearing others. Learn how to align your communication and reactions with God’s way, bringing His righteousness into your everyday interactions. 

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335614

Key Points:

1. Quick to listen – Approach conversations as an anxious learner, seeking to understand before responding (Proverbs 1:5).
2. Slow to speak – Resist the urge to speak hastily; choose words that build up rather than tear down (Proverbs 29:20).
3. Slow to become angry – Recognize when anger is sinful and when it can be used for righteous purposes (Ephesians 4:26).
4. Let God’s Word transform your responses – Humble yourself to Scripture so your actions reflect Christ (James 1:21).

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
 Pastor Chris recalls early marriage lessons where winning an argument often meant losing peace. He shares real-life examples of how unchecked anger damaged workplace relationships, friendships, and reputations.

Notable Quotes:

• “You can win the argument and totally lose everything else.”
• “Unchecked anger is a sin—confess it, release it, and let God replace it with His Spirit’s control.”
• “Be quick to listen like an anxious learner, not a quick responder.”

Actionable Takeaways:

• Heart reflection: Am I listening to understand or just to respond?
• Daily application: Pause before speaking, especially when emotions run high.
• Spiritual step: Trust God with your need for justice, leaving vengeance to Him (Romans 12:19).
• Next step: Practice listening fully in one conversation each day without offering immediate advice.

Scripture References:
 James 1:19–21 – Guideline for godly communication
 Romans 8:28 – God works for the good of His people
 Mark 10:14 – Jesus’ righteous indignation
 Romans 1:18 – God’s wrath against sin
 Acts 5:33 – The Sanhedrin’s fury
 Proverbs 27:4 – The power of anger
 Proverbs 29:8, 11, 20 – Wisdom and self-control
 Proverbs 19:3 – Heart raging against the Lord
 Matthew 21:12–13 – Jesus cleanses the temple
 Mark 3:5 – Jesus’ anger at hard hearts
 Ephesians 4:26 – Anger without sin

Keywords: James 1:19, anger management, righteous anger, quick to listen, slow to speak, biblical wisdom, Christian communication, controlling emotions, spiritual growth, conflict resolution

Challenge:
 This week, put James 1:19 into practice. In every conversation, commit to listening first, speaking thoughtfully, and keeping your anger under God’s control.

19m0331de Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak and Slow to Become Angry?

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New messages released Sundays.
Replay messages from Pastor Chris’s earlier ministry (2021 and prior), marked with an asterisk (*), are posted midweek.