Read the Room

“For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” James 3:2 ESV

“The emotions of man are stirred more quickly than man’s intelligence.” – Oscar Wilde

I’m the first to admit I stumble in what I say. By this standard, I know no perfect people but enjoy the company of others working on this themselves and helping others.

Can you read the room? Anyone who has given a speech, or presentation or entertained, knows this statement: Read the room. Are there some checking their watch or phone? Some gossiping? Some with a chip on their shoulder? Some are there to fill time or some other obligation. You’ve lost before you start.

Jesus could and still does Read the Room. He knew the hearts of the Pharisees, Peter and his impulses, and the Sons of Thunder. He could do this because He knew who He was and acted accordingly. Was He impulsive when He threw out the money changers from the Temple? No, He was acting in righteous anger for His Father’s House. I wouldn’t want money changers on my front steps and I’m not righteous except through Christ.

We must read ourselves first to read others and be a Christian example. It’s not for the faint of heart.

Musings

Professor Marc Brackett, author of Permission to Feel, uses the acronym Ruler to guide us in our feelings and the feelings of others:

R – Recognition of emotions in oneself and others

U – Understanding the causes and consequences of emotions

L – Labeling emotions accurately

E – Expressing emotions appropriately

R – Regulating emotions effectively

It has helped so many and if struggling, seek help from like-minded people.

Prayer

Dear Father,

We can come to your throne boldly to find help and mercy for our imperfect speech and situations. With You, we dare to look inside and trust we can improve with the Spirit’s guidance and prayers.

With abundant thanks, we praise You.

Amen.