My title for this devotion is Quick vs Slow.
There is no question in my mind that I’m getting older. In fact, at age 67 I think it is safe to say I’m on the “other” side of the equation. That has given rise to several realities. I don’t work out early in the morning any more because my joints can’t take it. I don’t have the stamina physically I used to. I used to ride every day-20-30 miles a pop-and relish it. Now I need a day in between to recover after a hard ride. I no longer run or jump or do foolish physical things that tax my body. Moving is not something I offer much to anyone unless I can get others to come along. I do things at a slower, more measured pace.
I’m reminded of James 1:19-“Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” So its okay to be quick, but it is also okay to be slow.
- Be quick to hear. I don’t do many things quick these day. Jo laughed at me/with me the other day when I said I’d run down the hall of the church building to get something for her. I don’t run. But I do need to listen. I do need to hear the needs, the hurt, the pain of others. And actually, I hear it louder and clearer these days.
- Be slow to speak. I don’t speak as quickly as I used to. Because I hear or listen, I respond slower. I don’t spout off like I used to with know-it-all words. In fact, a few months ago someone came into my office to speak with Ryan and me about a concern he had. After he left I had all sorts of questions and rebuttals.
- Be slow to anger. I’ve calmed down a lot. I never was one to blow up but I did allow my emotions to rule sometimes. Now I’m more measured. And my age has taught me to choose the hill I want to fight and die on.
Three simple phrases that pack a ton of weight. “Father, help me to exhibit these qualities each day. Help them to be a part of me, no matter how old I am.”
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I was late posting this because I was at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indy at 7:00 for this little guy’s heart cath with possible angioplasty surgery.
Alexander continues to amaze the doctors. Christine texted he came through great so I’m anxious to hear what the results are. Please continue praying for him and his family.
May we all be quick to listen and slow to speak, Bill. And I’ll be praying for little Alexander and his family – keep us posted!
Blessings!
I’ve been a little slow lately myself. It’s really hard for me to get angry. I think all those years of doing so have caught up with me… and for what? Getting angry does nothing.
So glad that Alex keeps coming through! What a mighty awesome loving God we serve!
Wise and needed words, Bill.
Praying for the little guy.
Glad to hear Alexander is doing so well! Continued prayers for the little guy and his family.
Quick vs Slow… a trait that I think comes with maturity. The older I get, the slower I am to respond and quicker I am to listen as well. Helps keep the stress down, Helps keep relationships stronger.