“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 (NIV)

Immaturity shows up boisterously and inconsiderate of others.

It shows up in unrestrained behavior, an unbridled tongue that says whatever it feels, temper tantrums when we can’t have our way, and the ugly habit of attacking and belittling others just to feel bigger or better. But  the Apostle James confronts us with God’s grown up way: quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. That command doesn’t just shape our conversations, it exposes our heart.

When we constantly have to win, dominate, clap back, or “put somebody in their place,” we’re revealing that our flesh is still in the driver’s seat. And the truth is, outbursts don’t prove strength; they prove a lack of control. They don’t produce God’s righteousness, they produce damage, division, and regret.

God wants His people to grow up.

Christian maturity isn’t just knowing more scripture; it’s showing more restraint. It’s humility that doesn’t need attention, love that doesn’t keep score, and self-control that refuses to be ruled by moods and impulses. Maturity learns to pause, pray, and choose a better response. It stops using words as weapons and starts using words as bridges. It refuses to tear others down to build self up, because our identity is already secure in Christ. Growing up in God means we don’t let anger lead, we don’t let pride talk, and we don’t let insecurity drive.

We let the Holy Spirit shape our reactions so our lives look like Jesus; steady, compassionate, and disciplined.

There is no amount of singing or preaching or quoting scripture  or blasting people on social media that can diminish or replace true Christian maturity.

God wants us to grow up.

Prayer

Lord, forgive us for the ways we've acted immaturely. Speaking too quickly, reacting too strongly, and using our words to wound instead of heal. Help us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Teach us restraint when we feel provoked, humility when we feel overlooked, and love when we feel tempted to compete. Holy Spirit, grow us up in Christ, make our character steady, our tongue disciplined, and our heart like Yours. In Jesus’ name, Amen.