True Power Lies in Our Response
- Pastor Cris
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
“Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” ~James 1:19
Many of our reactions aren’t chosen, they’re automatic. A sharp word, a defensive posture, withdrawal, frustration, or even silence can surface before we even realize what’s happening. Instead of being formed through present wisdom, oftentimes our responses are formed in past seasons through pain, disappointment, fear, or survival.
But God has not shaped us to live on autopilot.
An automatic response may protect us temporarily, but it can quietly prevent growth, healing, and obedience. When we react without pausing, we respond from memory instead of discernment. We answer from wounds instead of wisdom. Ouch! That hurt even when I typed it.
Jesus consistently modeled intentional response. He paused when questioned. He listened before speaking. He responded in truth, not impulse.
Holy Spirit invites us to slow down; not to suppress emotion, but to submit it. The pause creates space for conviction, space for clarity, and compassion. And in that space, God transforms reflex into revelation. 🙌🏻
Maturity in Christ is not the absence of emotion. Instead, it is the ability to respond under the leadership of the Spirit rather than the pressure of the moment.
We're all guilty: jumping to conclusions, using a sharp tone with others, even shutting down and cutting people off.
So today, ask yourself:
Is this response learned or led?
Am I reacting from habit or from faith?
What would obedience look like if I just took a moment to pause?
God is not just renewing our minds, He is retraining our responses.
Reflection Question:
What situation tends to trigger an automatic response in you? What would it look like to invite Holy Spirit into that moment?
Prayer:
Father, help me recognize the places where I respond automatically instead of intentionally. Teach me to pause, listen, and yield my reactions to You. Heal the places that have trained my reflexes, and shape my responses to reflect Your wisdom, Your grace, and Your truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
For Your listening Pleasure: Hard Fought Hallelujah by Brandon Lake & Jelly Roll
I do not own the rights to this music
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