Relationships - Part II

James 1:19.20 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

In dealing with others, it is important that we don't put our desires above theirs. Most relationship problems stem from selfishness in some form on one or both sides. One way we can accomplish this task of putting others first is to simply pause when we feel the need to speak. All too often problems arise because someone just did not listen. God's Word tells us that we should be "quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry". This is probably some of the greatest relationship advice ever given.

Our words can build up or destroy others that we interact with. We can be a good example of Christ's love or we can turn people away from God because of the way we've treated them. In listening and pausing, we will choose our words more wisely and be less likely to say hurtful things. It's our selfishness that so often drives us to be the one to speak first and speak hastily.

Our relationships will benefit from us thinking before speaking and listening before reacting. This is all part of putting others first, loving our neighbors as we love ourselves, and treating others as we would like to be treated.

Luke 6:31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.