My dear brothers and sisters, take
note of this: Everyone should be quick
to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. James 1:19 NIV
We often don’t
think of listening as connected to trusting God but there is a strong
correlation between the two. One reason
for a lack of listening is a lack of trust that God is in control and is
working for our good. Here are three
examples of how a lack of trust produces poor listening.
• We may be afraid that we won’t get our chance
if we don’t speak first and often.
• We may be fearful and interpret someone’s
disagreement with us as a personal attack.
• We may act selfishly to get our own way
rather than listening for a way that is good for us and the others with us.
On the flip
side, a stronger trust in God gives us a
peace inside us that empowers us to give others a chance to speak.
- Trust in God keeps us from worrying about people disagreeing with us because we know God will protect the truth.
- Trust in God allows us to be humble and be open to changing our minds if someone presents a good idea.
- Trust in God helps us be patient and look for ways that are good for everyone involved.
This week, take
these two steps to help you grow in trust and in listening.
1. Start each day with this simple prayer. “Father, I trust you. You are the defender of truth and you are
working for my good. Please give me
grace to walk in your truth and to listen to others so that love can grow and
truth can be shared.”
2. Choose one day and make it your goal to ask
every person you meet that day at least two questions before you tell them
anything. Listen well as they answer
your questions. Seek to understand what
they are saying with their words and actions.
