Why Our Response Matters?

There are days when James 1:19 feels like it was written just for me. Honestly. 😔😅

“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.”
James 1:19–20

Sometimes I find myself reading this verse and then sighing with a little bit of embarrassment because, if I’m being real, I still struggle with this more often than I’d like to admit.

I want to be someone who listens more, speaks less, and doesn’t let anger take control of my heart or my words. I want to represent Jesus well not just in church or ministry but also at home, in the university where I teach, in our neighborhood, in the market, and even in those little day-to-day encounters that no one else may notice.

I don’t want to come across as someone who’s just “religious” who talks about God but reacts to people harshly or impatiently. Instead, I want my actions, especially my responses to others, to reflect the way God patiently and gently deals with me every day.

That’s why James 1:19 always stops me in my tracks:

Quick to listen.
Slow to speak.
Slow to anger.

These three simple instructions can feel so hard to practice, but they really do make all the difference, not just for our own peace of mind but for our witness as followers of Jesus.

The way we respond in everyday situations at home with our spouse, with our children, at work with our colleagues or students, even with strangers in the market or at a café, shows the world what is really alive in our hearts.

God’s Word was never meant to just be read and memorized. It was meant to be lived out.

The Way of the World vs. The Way of the Word

When we look around, it’s clear that the world operates differently.

People are quick to speak their minds, even when their words hurt others.
They are slow to really listen, especially to someone they disagree with.
And they are quick to get angry, to argue, to fight back.

But James reminds us that this is not the way of those who belong to God. Why?
Because “human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires” (James 1:20).

God desires that our lives reflect His truth and His character. He wants our responses to bring peace, build others up, and show His love even in moments of disagreement or tension.

James continues in verse 21:

“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.”

It’s the Word of God planted in our hearts and obeyed that brings real transformation and blessing.

Why Our Responses Matter

We live in a world full of brokenness. Every day, people encounter stress, pain, unfair treatment, and misunderstandings. That’s true in Cambodia and anywhere else.

But when someone chooses to respond differently to listen, to stay calm, to speak gently, to forgive, it stands out.

It reflects the grace of God at work in a life.

Whether you’re a student in a crowded classroom, a wife managing a busy home, a colleague handling office pressure, or just someone interacting with strangers at the market, how you respond to others matters.

Not only does it honor God, but it also invites others to see Him in you.

We can use these reflections and short prayers throughout your day, especially when you’re about to face a difficult conversation or situation:

7 Helpful Applications

So how can we practice this daily? Here are seven simple ways to live out James 1:19 wherever God places you.

1. Pause Before You Speak

When someone says or does something upsetting, take a deep breath. Count to five silently before responding. A short pause can keep you from saying something you might regret later.

Do I take time to really listen to the people around me?

Prayer: Father, calm my anger and fill me with Your peace.

2. Really Listen

Instead of preparing your reply while the other person is talking, focus on their words and feelings. Repeat what you heard to make sure you understand.

How do I usually react when someone offends or frustrates me?

Prayer: Lord, help me to listen with understanding and patience.

3. Pray Silently in the Moment

If a situation is heated, whisper a quick prayer: “Lord, help me respond with patience and kindness.” This shifts your focus from anger to grace.

What would it look like to respond the way Jesus would?

Prayer: Jesus, give me wisdom to know when to speak and when to stay silent.

4. Use Gentle Words

Even if you need to correct someone or say no, choose words that are kind and respectful. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us that “a gentle answer turns away wrath.” Read from my previous posts here 👈

In what ways can I show gentleness at home today?

Prayer: God, help my words to bring life, not hurt.

5. Walk Away If Needed

Sometimes the best way to keep from getting angry is to step aside for a moment. It’s okay to say, “Let me think about this and we can talk again later.”

Am I letting God’s Word shape my thoughts and actions?

Prayer: Lord, keep me humble and willing to hear others out.

6. Speak Less, Do More

Often, actions speak louder than words. Show care and understanding through what you do, not just what you say.

Have I been quick to speak or quick to anger lately? Why?

Prayer: Jesus, teach me to respond the way You would.

7. Fill Your Mind with God’s Word

Spend time in Scripture every day. The more your heart is filled with His truth, the more it will overflow in your responses.

How might my responses point others to Christ?

Prayer: Father, let my actions reflect the love You’ve shown me.

A Final Word of Encouragement

No one gets this perfect all the time. I certainly don’t.

But every day is a new opportunity to choose to respond better to listen more, speak less, and let God’s Spirit guide our hearts.

You may never know how much of an impact a kind response, a listening ear, or a gentle word might make in someone’s life.

Sometimes the smallest change in your response can open the biggest door to showing God’s love to the people around you.

So let’s make it our prayer today that wherever God places us, we would respond in a way that brings Him glory.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being so patient with me. Thank You for Your Word that teaches me to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Help me today and every day to live out this truth at home, at work, in school, and in every place You send me. Fill me with Your Spirit so that my responses reflect Your love and grace. May others see You through my words and actions. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

If this has encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you. 

Share your thoughts or even a story about how God helped you respond differently in a difficult situation. 

Let’s keep encouraging one another to live out His Word wherever we are, and in whatever we do. 

Love from Cambodia, 

Tess 😅😍🙏