July 13, 2020
Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. Jeremiah 29:12
What makes a person a good listener? According to an article in the Harvard Business Review, most people think good listening comes down to three things. First, being a good listener requires us to be silent when others are speaking, occasionally asking questions to show interest in what is being said. Next, connecting with the person talking through facial expressions and verbal sounds like “Mmm-hmm” helps them feel that we are really listening. Finally, being able to sum up what the other person has said not only shows we’ve been listening but also helps us retain the information.
I admit my family gets frustrated when I don’t listen. I’m guilty of trying to do too many things at one time and not being able to focus on what they’re saying or questions they’re asking. I need to stop and focus on what they’re saying and stop trying to multitask. I know I feel valued when I am listened to, so I want others to feel the same way, especially my family.
God is always the best listener, and we don’t have to worry about Him being too busy to hear us. God doesn’t have specific business hours—He is always available and ready to listen. As we try to become better listeners at home, at work, and with friends and neighbors, we can listen for God’s guidance through the Holy Spirit, knowing that He hears our whispers and even our unspoken prayers. God knows what’s in our hearts.
Laurie Secor