A Bible teacher used a dancing analogy and, suddenly, it’s always in my mind.  Quick, slow, slow.  Quick, slow, slow.  That’s the rhythm of a godly life.

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. – James 1:19

It’s not the way of the flesh.  Flesh wants to strike out when wounded.  Human nature wants others to hurt when we hurt. All too often, we look for ways to share the pain.  That is not God’s way.  Quick, slow, slow.  Quick, slow, slow.

And, sometimes, the slow is painful. The keeping silent while others rage. The decision to not return anger for anger. It takes effort to train our hearts in the steps of this unnatural dance.

No dance is successful unless one leads and one follows.  We would be best to stand down and let the one who created the dance lead the way.

The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent. – Exodus 14:14

Quick, slow, slow.  Quick, slow, slow.

When we allow ourselves to be taken over by the godly rhythm, this dance of life is a bit easier and softer. We find that there is beauty in the brokenness. We begin to recognize others who are learning the same moves and we can appreciate the effort it takes.

Then, instead of judging or misunderstanding or lashing out, we can smile and nod because we understand.

We understand the dance and we recognize those awkward movements.  We give grace to those still learning the steps.

Quick, slow, slow.  

Quick, slow, slow.