TeaTime Devotional July 24th, 2025

Written By: Jean Johnson

Scripture: James 1:19 (KJV)

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Testimony: 

This scripture has become my anchor as a wife, mother, and friend. Sometimes the best advice I give myself is simply: “Shut up”, but not harshly, but holy. It reminds me to pause, listen, and let God lead. As a wife, I’m learning to listen more and speak with love, especially knowing my husband is older and set in his ways. As a mother of six grown children, it helps me support without overstepping, choosing prayer over unsolicited advice. As a friend, it reminds me to truly listen and respond with wisdom, not emotion. This verse grounds me, by teaching me that a gentle spirit and a listening heart carry more power than quick words ever could.

Edify

This verse is a holy reminder that sometimes the wisest thing we can do is gently shut up.  Pause our opinions, quiet our emotions, and make room for God to move. When we listen more and speak less, we give space for healing, understanding, and peace. Being slow to anger allows the fruit of the Spirit to shine through. Let this scripture guide your day. Choose wisdom over reaction, prayer over pride, and grace over frustration. Sometimes silence is the most powerful sermon we can offer.

Apply: 

When tensions rise in conversation, this verse tells us to pause and listen. Listening first can stop unnecessary conflict and create deeper understanding. When we feel the urge to give our opinion or correct someone, it reminds us to “shhh” not in silence or of fear, but in strength through wisdom. God often does more with our quiet than we can with our words. When emotions are high whether from stress, offense, or frustration; remember to respond with grace, not anger. Being slow to wrath doesn’t mean weakness; it means we’re strong enough to let God lead.