Are you listening?
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TODAY’S VERSE: James 1:19
“Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.” [Amplified Bible (AMP) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation]
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Listening has been said to be one of the most difficult skills to develop in life (and I agree). As human beings, God created us with the need (and means) to talk and communicate our minds and feelings. But at the same time, God gave each of us a pair of ears so we may understand His truth and also care for our brothers and sisters’ hurts and joys. A great speaker is also considered a great listener. And perhaps God gave us just one tongue but two ears to emphasize the importance of listening over talking.
As a thinker and learning specialist who needs to share his creative ideas on a daily basis, I have found of great value channeling my thinking process through daily prayer and meditation in God’s Word. This has helped me tremendously in understanding what, when and how to share my ideas and thoughts at the right time and place –as well as when to just stop and listen. At times listening without talking can be very difficult, but it is possible –as long as we keep the Biblical principle in mind: “There is a right time for everything … a time to be silent and a time to speak.” [Ecclesiastes 3:1,7, International Children's Bible]
Perhaps you are also struggling with developing your listening skills (and I believe most of us are). If so, here’s a key: be humble before God on a daily basis and be sensitive to the needs around you. Through these, God will show you (and me) how to be the great listeners we need to be.
Are you listening?
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for providing me the physical means to communicate and listen. Help me to focus on Your ability within me to listen more and speak less. Even in my quiet times with You, help me to provide You a space and listen to Your heart. In Jesus’ precious name, amen.
