Improving Your Hearing
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…”
James 1:19 (NIV)
One of the most common causes of frustration and friction is that we don’t really listen to each other. Too often we talk at each other rather than with each other.
Research shows that you spend about 40% of your waking hours listening.
But most of the time you are only listening at 25% efficiency.
That creates many of your problems.
Fortunately, listening is a skill that can be developed.
The benefits of learning how to listen are enormous: fewer mistakes, better negotiating, greater wisdom, more friends, less arguments, and much, much more.
The Bible says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”
If you do the first two (be quick to listen and slow to speak), the third will be automatic.
THREE THINGS HINDER OUR HEARING:
1- PRESUMPTION – when we think we already know it all. “He who answers before listening is put to shame.” Proverbs.29:20
2- IMPATIENCE – when you interrupt and jump to conclusions. “There is more hope for a fool than for a man who speaks in haste.” Proverbs. 29:20
3- PRIDE – when we are defensive and unteachable. “The way of a fool seems right, but a wise man listens to advice.” Proverbs. 12:15
You can learn from anyone if you know the right questions to ask!
Let me suggest three “HEARING AIDS.”
1. Listen with your eyes – Approximately 80% of communication is non-verbal. Facial expressions and body language usually tell the real story. Look at people when you listen to them!
2. Listen with your heart – Be sympathetic. Tune in to the emotions behind the words.
3. Make time to listen to the people around you
I’ve had people tell me, “God never speaks to me!” Oh really?
Is it possible that you’ve been too busy to listen?
He wants to talk to you. Tune into Him today.
God speaks to those who take the time to listen!
Prayer
God, help me to listen better.
To You, to my family, at work, and with my friends.
Show me how to be wise in my hearing that I might also honour You in my doing.
Speak Lord, for Your servant is listening.
Amen
Study by Fraser MurdochÂ