My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. James 1:19-20

These are pretty powerful words of instruction that are sometimes so difficult to follow! If only I could take back the many times that I have not been quick to listen but instead was quick to speak and accuse with words of anger. How well God knows and understand us that he would give these words of instruction with the reminder that we will be challenged in our daily lives and that it is in accepting his grace and forgiveness that will bring us peace.

I found the lyrics to a song called “Too Late” by Gary Leach and Matthew Ward. The words certainly speak to this message. “So as your life goes on, your art of pain grows bold, and with a lashing word you gain a strangle hold. But don’t believe that you can counter pain with pain. It only adds another link into your chain.” I am saddened by the chorus which says “Too late for you, too late for me, to turn back time.” But am reminded of God’s saving grace in the last coda “In the future days, forgiving ways will solve the crime.”

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for Your grace and forgiveness when we stray from Your teaching. Be by my side to give me the strength to live Your words in my daily life. In Your name we pray, Amen.