Are you slow?

James 1:19
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

The Word of God is our answer in every situation of life. God’s word provides the instruction we need on a daily bases to live and maintain a life of true victory. Proverbs 4:13 tells us, “Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life. God is a speaking spirit and He never fails to speak to us a word in due season. He will always provide us with daily bread but we must be those who will come to the table, take a seat, put up your feet and begin to eat.
This scripture in James says we must be quick to hear. Now, he was not saying be quick to hear any and everything that is being said by just anybody. We must be selective with what we hear and flee from things like gossiping lips and slanderous tongues, these things defile precious souls and shipwreck destinies. When we prioritize hearing from God, His word will keep us clean and strong, help us to live long and guard us against pollutants. Be quick to hear what the Spirit of God is saying to the church of God and also what He is saying to you as an individual. The Holy Spirit is here in the earth to guide us in all truth, to help us.
James says be slow to speak, this takes spiritual discipline. Discipline is a fruit of the Spirit which flows out of love. Spiritual discipline helps us to maintain control and order our soul and body. We are to control our own mouths and words, God will not do that for us. We have to honor the Word of God and obey its commands, it is for our benefit.
James says be slow to wrath or anger. Being a hot-head is not cute but rather an ugly display of an un-crucified flesh. There is nothing commendable about uncontrolled anger. Many times people pat themselves on the back after going off in a childish rage, feeling as if they had a right to act in such an ungodly manner because they were mistreated. Even in the event a Christian is mistreated or wronged that does not give us the ok to step outside the Word of God and take things into our own hands. When we can control our actions and respond in a way that honors God and His Word we are growing up.
Let us practice this awesome life changing word given to us by God through His written Word. It will bring strength and stability to our spirit, soul and body helping us to fulfill our God given destiny with joy.