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by Bob and Debby Gass
Listen More, Say Less
September 18, 2014
‘Be…[a ready listener].’ James 1:19 AMP
Talking instead of listening—will get you into trouble. Two geese were preparing to fly south when a frog asked if he could go along. They questioned how he could do it. ‘Easy,’ he said. ‘You guys hold a stick between your beaks and I’ll hang on with my mouth.’ Off they went as people looked up, admiring their teamwork. The trio was making great progress until somebody below shouted, ‘Great idea! Whose was it?’ That’s when the frog opened his mouth and yelled, ‘Miiiiiiiine!’ Every time you open your mouth there are consequences! So learn to listen. Plutarch said, ‘The talkative listen to no one, for they are ever speaking. And the first evil that attends those who know not how to be silent is that they hear nothing.’ Listening without having to air your knowledge or interject your opinion is a quality of character that proves you’re mature. Television host Larry King once said, ‘I remind myself every morning: nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So if I’m going to learn, I must do it by listening.’ Jesus was a great listener, and as a result He attracted people like a magnet. Doubtless there were times He was tired and didn’t feel like it—but He listened anyway. When the disciples fussed among themselves, and the Pharisees grumbled and caused trouble, Jesus focused on the important things. He listened, He spoke, and people followed. Listening is often more effective than talking. In fact, there’s a point in every conversation where you need to say less and listen more. In those moments you not only hear what others are saying, but what God is saying to you!
Soulfood: Micah 5–7; Luke 22:39–53; Ps 24; Pro 24:15–18
The Word for Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from UCB International Copyright © 2014
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