The Book of James is my "go to" reading to help renew my faith. John pulls no punches as he lays out in plain terms what it means to be a Christian. In chapter 1, we get this warning:
"19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."
"Righteousness" in this context refers to our compact with God and other humans. It is based on faith in and commitment to God. It is what we do for Him and each other. It is NOT about being "justified" or "right" from a moral perspective.
This hits me right on the nose as I am guilty of being quick to speak and become angry while being slow to listen. So, it's my intention to this year to remember this bit of wisdom:
'We have two ears and one mouth for a reason'
Listen. Pause. Reflect. Speak.
