We have two ears and one mouth for a reason. This simple truth, tucked into the way God designed our bodies, carries a gentle yet profound lesson: listen more than you speak.
📖 "So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." — James 1:19 (NKJV)
Listening is not passive. It is an active, loving posture that says, I value your heart and story. In a noisy world, it becomes an act of compassion to give another person the gift of full attention. It allows us to discern not just words, but feelings and unspoken needs.
I do enjoy listening to others; it brings me joy to hear their stories and to hold space for their hearts. Yet I know this has been a journey for me. Being raised in a silent home and having spent much of my life feeling disconnected, I am still learning the skill of active listening. It does not come naturally, but God has been gracious in teaching me how to lean in with love, to listen not only with my ears but with my heart. Every conversation becomes both a practice ground and a gift, shaping me into someone who longs to mirror His attentiveness.
When we slow down to hear first, our words carry more weight and grace. Prayer becomes deeper. Friendships grow stronger. Even conflicts soften, because someone has truly been heard. As you move through today, let your ears do the greater part of the work. Speak carefully, with kindness, after the listening is done.
💡Reflection:
When was the last time you felt truly listened to? 🤔
How did it impact your heart? 🤔
In your conversations, do you tend to listen to respond, or listen to understand? 🤔
What practical step can you take today to become more present when someone is sharing their heart with you? 🤔
How might God be inviting you to listen more closely — to His Word, to His people, and to the whispers of the Holy Spirit?
🙏 Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of ears to hear and a heart to understand. Teach me to listen with patience and compassion, not only to others but also to the gentle leading of Your Holy Spirit. Guard my tongue so that my words may be filled with grace, wisdom, and kindness. May my listening bring comfort, healing, and peace to those around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Dinsdag 23 September 2025
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