Sometimes being an introvert is a very good thing....

"Time to dust off the blog and put a few of my thoughts down." That's what I decided this morning, but I am quite frankly surprised that I am here doing just that. I have made a commitment this year to memorize the book of James. I say that for accountability...and to provide background for these musings because I'm sure many of them will reference the book of James. It's not my favorite book of the Bible but it's my focus right now. I also do not say that with any pride whatsoever...my study of God's Word, so precious, has been one of starts and stops...not the continual serious study that one would expect of a extraordinary gift such as this. But onto to James...So many things I want to share, but I'll stick today with the most recent insight. As I recited James 1:1-22 this morning (as far as I've gotten to date), I was drawn to dwell on part of verse 19..."My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." I am frequently reminded of one of my personality types...INTROVERT. How I have longed to shed the introvert skin to reveal an extrovert! But that's not happening....now or ever. As I recited this verse, I recalled a recent conversation and found reason to praise God that I am an introvert. It makes obedience to this verse so much easier! I had a conversation with a fairly new friend recently. They were pretty distraught...to the point of tears...over a current situation in their life. As they shared, I listened. I did offer a few words of encouragement, but nothing worth writing down. I had no solutions or direction to give them. It wasn't until later that I realized I should have prayed for them, right then, rather than just the promise to pray (which I did and continue to do). But another missed opportunity to bring healing by going to God for guidance, comfort and peace. But the next day when I saw them, they expressed thanks for what I had said to them...how it had really made a difference for them. I smiled and said I was so glad that things were looking better for them and I would continue to pray for them. But I walked away thinking that I don't remember saying anything of real note to them....nothing that could possible mean so much. But I listened, and I pointed them to God. Listening can be very powerful! This verse tells us that the best path is first one of listening. Then be careful about the words that come from our lips. I understood their plight...I could have validated their anger over their current situation. But God moves in our lives best when we are humble and when we leave the anger behind and trust him. I'm also reading a book on Humility...maybe I'll share more on that another day. On to study verses 23-24.....