We live in a world where reactions are immediate and typically unfiltered. Our conversations, social media feeds, and news cycles are dominated by rapid-fire responses to controversies. As followers of Jesus Christ, we must rise above the impulsiveness of the world and strive to embody calm discernment, steadfast faith, and divine virtue. The Apostle James taught, “Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). This verse tells us to practise a higher standard—to be thoughtful, measured, and guided by the Spirit in all our actions.
To act reactively is to move without prayerful reflection, usually succumbing to the emotions of the moment rather than anchoring ourselves in the eternal truths of God. The wisdom literature of the Bible provides clear counsel: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” (Proverbs 16:32). This principle is mirrored in the Book of Mormon. Nephi reminds us that it is through meekness and reliance on God that we gain strength. He declares, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). Rash behaviour rarely leads to true service, understanding, or lasting solutions. We must recognise that reactionary tendencies are often stoked by the adversary. Satan seeks to stir our hearts with fear, anger, and pride. His aim is to blind us to the needs of others and turn our witness to the Gospel into mere noise. The Saviour’s example provides the perfect contrast. Despite facing relentless opposition, false accusations, and even betrayal, He remained composed and full of love. When Peter, in a moment of impulsivity, drew his sword to defend Him in Gethsemane, Jesus gently rebuked him, saying, “Put up again thy sword into its place; for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.” (Matthew 26:52). Here, the Master Teacher shows us that impulsive action leads to greater harm.
The Saviour’s calm trust in the Father is a model for each of us. He taught us to place our burdens in the hands of God, remembering that “the battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). Yet this does not mean we are called to passivity or indifference. Discerning when and how to respond requires us to be deeply rooted in prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost. The Apostle Paul gives this admonition: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21). To do this, we must pause and seek the Spirit before speaking or acting.
I would like to share a few simple, practical steps for overcoming reactionary tendencies:
We need to pause and pray. When faced with provocation, take a moment to pray. Ask for the strength to respond with patience and wisdom. In the Book of Mormon, Alma teaches that true strength lies in humility and reliance on God. “Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.” (Alma 26:12)
We need to seek understanding. Strive to gain a full understanding of the situation before you act. What seems offensive at first glance may be a misunderstanding. As we are reminded, “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)
Let’s speak with purpose: Let your words be seasoned with grace. Paul admonishes us, “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:6) In the Book of Mormon, the counsel of King Benjamin underscores this: “See that ye do all things in wisdom and in order.” (Mosiah 4:27)
We need to remember the long view. Winning an argument is far less important than winning a soul. Sometimes, silence and patience speak louder than any retort. Our ultimate goal is to build Zion, not to triumph in worldly disputes.
While we must avoid reactionary behaviour, we are also commanded to be firm and immovable in our faith. (1 Corinthians 15:58) In the Sermon on the Mount, the Saviour taught that a wise man builds his house upon a rock—a foundation that withstands the storms of life (Matthew 7:24–25). The prophet Helaman declared, “Remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation” (Helaman 5:12). A life grounded in the Scriptures and in the teachings of Jesus Christ equips us to respond with wisdom, grace, and unwavering faith.
As I conclude, I feel impressed to share my personal testimony of the principles we have discussed. I know from my own experiences how challenging it can be to resist the pull of reactionary emotions. There have been moments in my life when I acted impulsively, driven by frustration or fear, only to feel the sting of regret afterward. However, I have also felt the sweet, sustaining peace that comes from pausing, praying, and seeking Heavenly Father’s guidance before I speak or act. I bear witness that when we turn to our Saviour Jesus Christ in such moments, He will fill our hearts with calm assurance and guide us to respond with wisdom and love.
I know that Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. He lives, and He leads His Church today. His example of patience, humility, and trust in the Father’s will is the perfect model for us. I testify that through His Atonement, we can overcome the tendencies that draw us toward contention and develop hearts that are meek and lowly, full of compassion and grace. The Holy Ghost will be our constant companion as we earnestly seek to reflect the light of Christ in all that we do.
I have felt the truth of these teachings confirmed to my soul by the power of the Spirit, and I testify that the word of God is a sure foundation upon which we can build a life of peace and virtue. I invite each of you to trust in the Lord’s promises, to be slow to anger, quick to love, and ever mindful of the Great Commandment to love God and our neighbours. In doing so, we will find joy, stability, and strength, no matter what storms we face. I leave you this witness, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
