Have you ever been in a conversation with someone and suddenly realized they never heard a word you said? It can be frustrating and even hurtful if it's someone close to you. Sometimes people are caught up in their own problems or circumstances. Stress and burdens can be a barrier to listening to others.
As Christians we can take our burdens or requests to the Lord. Psalm 55: v. 17 says, "...I will pray and cry aloud, And He shall hear my voice." Do we stop long enough to carefully listen to Him as He answers back? Proverbs 1: v. 33 "But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, And will be secure, without fear of evil."
Listening with the heart is key to understanding where they are in their situation. Hearing not just words but their joy, pain or if they just need someone to vent to is important. Don't be quick to judge or give advice unless it's necessary. Be ready though if advice is given that sometimes it is not wanted. You may find those who want you to listen may not be willing to listen themselves. Your advice may be unwanted or rejected. As a parent, spouse, teacher, or friend, your years of experience may not resonate with them at this time which may stir feelings of rejection or even anger. Remember, only God can soften the heart and make it ready to receive what's offered.
Last but so important is trust. When we are called to listen we are also called to protect what has been given to us in confidence. As we have trusted in Christ may we show others that we can also be trusted.
James 1: v. 19 KJV
"Wherefore, my brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
1st Timothy 6: v. 20 NKJV
"...Guard what was committed to your trust,..."
As Christians we can take our burdens or requests to the Lord. Psalm 55: v. 17 says, "...I will pray and cry aloud, And He shall hear my voice." Do we stop long enough to carefully listen to Him as He answers back? Proverbs 1: v. 33 "But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, And will be secure, without fear of evil."
Listening with the heart is key to understanding where they are in their situation. Hearing not just words but their joy, pain or if they just need someone to vent to is important. Don't be quick to judge or give advice unless it's necessary. Be ready though if advice is given that sometimes it is not wanted. You may find those who want you to listen may not be willing to listen themselves. Your advice may be unwanted or rejected. As a parent, spouse, teacher, or friend, your years of experience may not resonate with them at this time which may stir feelings of rejection or even anger. Remember, only God can soften the heart and make it ready to receive what's offered.
Last but so important is trust. When we are called to listen we are also called to protect what has been given to us in confidence. As we have trusted in Christ may we show others that we can also be trusted.
James 1: v. 19 KJV
"Wherefore, my brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
1st Timothy 6: v. 20 NKJV
"...Guard what was committed to your trust,..."
1 comment:
Marie, enjoyed the blog, very good, you are so talented, thanks for sharing...
Ann
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