Listen

“Understand this my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.

For man’s anger does not promote the righteousness God [wishes and requires].”

 James 19, 20

Listening is a virtuous skill which most of us need to cultivate. Too often we listen without extending our full attention and empathy to the other person. If I have the appearance of a listener but my heart is not postured toward that person, or my mind is distracted by other things, I fall short of love.

True listening is an act of love. I recall times when I was listening to someone and my mind drifted elsewhere. On other occasions I was seeing and hearing not just the words but the heart of the person.

How do you feel when trying to communicate something important or deeply personal to someone who is distracted or preoccupied with their phone? People are important, precious to God and we are part of each other. Let’s strive to be the type of listeners we desire when sharing our lives.