I was studying about James 1:19–27. These are those passages that feel like a gentle but necessary wake-up call, a reminder of what authentic faith really looks like in daily life. These verses highlight three powerful habits that can transform our spiritual walk: listening well, living intentionally, and loving sincerely.

First, James teaches us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Oh my! This is kind of hard, right? The benefit here is clear: when we listen more than we react, we create space for understanding, patience, and peace. It protects our relationships and keeps our hearts soft.

This is a personal struggle since I am naturally catty. But when you’re with the Lord, your old cattiness is irrelevant, we must humble ourselves and try to live according to his instructions. Obedience is key. It took me awhile, but I eventually got there. I still fall short but now, I can recognize it as opposed to my old self who justifies everything.

Then James shifts to a deeper challenge: don’t just hear God’s Word, do something with it. He compares passive listeners to people who glance at a mirror and forget their reflection. The blessing comes when we move from knowledge to action. Applying God’s truth grounds us, gives direction, and shapes our character in ways mere hearing never will.

Because it does not really make any difference if we’re just looking at our reflection then pag ang dungis natin, wala naman tayong babaguhin (seeing ourselves stained but not cleaning it up)! What’s the point in that?

Finally, James defines “pure religion”: caring for the vulnerable and keeping our hearts unpolluted by the world. There’s a quiet beauty in this call, faith becomes meaningful, compassionate, and real.

These verses remind us that genuine faith is lived out: through listening, obedience, and love.