Gentle Strength

This week, I have been learning a lot about being quick to listen, slow to speak, and having a gentle strength through silence.  It has really been a lesson for me, because I love to talk, chatter, and even ramble most of the time.  The lesson I have been learning stems from The Resolution for Women and its references back to God's Word.  I highly encourage you to pick up a copy and get started reading!  Don't worry.  This posting is not directed specifically at women; it is for everyone.

"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry..."  James 1:19 is a great reminder that listening should be a priority before speaking.  People do not always come to us seeking advice.  Sometimes they simply come hoping for an ear to hear them.  Therefore, we should be quick to listen and slow to speak. 

Another great reason to listen before speaking is to give time to seek God's wisdom.  If someone does come to us seeking advice, it is necessary to carefully consider our responses instead of blurting.  We should all slow down and give ourselves time to humbly bring God's Word and wisdom to the forefront of the conversation.

Have you ever experienced someone who is quick to listen and slow to speak?  I know I have.  I was instantly drawn to her because of her gentle strength through silence.  The woman I am talking about is actually my mom.  I can call her on the phone or be in her presence and just talk to her for hours.  She patiently sits and is quick to listen, slow to speak, and humbly wise.  The more I talk with my mom, the more apparent her gentle strength becomes.  She does not have to overpower our conversation in order to get her point across.  She simply says what is needed, then resumes listening. 

One other thing I'd like to discuss regarding speaking is found in Luke 6:45b, "What you say flows from what is in your heart."  What we spend our time thinking about and focusing on, will eventually come out through our mouths.  Remember to guard your heart from things that are not pleasing to God.  "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."  Proverbs 4:23.  Philippians 4:8 reminds us what to focus our minds and hearts on, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Now I promise you that I am not writing about this topic because it is something I have mastered.  Learning to listen before speaking will probably be a lifelong battle for me.  But I know that when it comes to my relationship with God, He desires for me to be quick to listen and slow to speak.  When we slow down and listen, we learn to be that gentle strength that so many others need in their lives.