Different DirectionSample

Relationships

• Through the book of James, God tells His children to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This is wonderful relational advice that goes a long way to producing and maintaining unity in the diversity of the Christian community. As believers, we should recognize that our relationships allow us to listen & learn from others. A learning attitude allows us to better benefit from the Body of Christ as God intended His people to grow together and rely on each other’s strengths in the pursuit of knowing Him and making Him known.
• As we listen and speak with one another, we have to recognize that our words hold tremendous power to hurt or heal the people around us. The Bible points out that our words are a reflection of our innermost being, so we should be vigilant to not only speak with love, but to be genuinely filled with the love of Christ in every situation. With speech that is truly Different from the world around us, we can not only reveal our own transformed hearts, but we can Direct the hearts of others to see the hope of Jesus Christ.
• Prepare to read the following verses by praying & asking God to focus your attention and affections on Him.

Reflection: 

• Are you quick to speak or listen? Who have you given authority to speak into your life?
• Do your words hurt or help the people around you?
• What is the appearance of your heart as reflected by your words?