Quick To Listen
Recent events have created a renewed interest in the timeless art of listening. I have read and heard many statements like, “I’m ready to listen.” This article is not about the substance of those calls. Instead, it is a biblical reminder of the importance of listening. One of our classic bible texts on listening is James 1.19. “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” We will briefly consider three very important lessons from this text.
First, listening is challenging for us. James creates a direct contrast in this verse. Hearing is juxtaposed with speaking and anger because these create barriers to hearing. Expressing our thoughts often becomes the primary objective and dialogues frequently devolve into competing monologues. Also, the relief valve for rising blood pressure tends to be sought in the speaking portion of a conversation. These natural tendencies prevent us from practicing what we know is theoretically best – listening.
Second, listening failures are common. Failure to listen in one area of life is a reminder that we are likely doing it in others as well. How many husbands have realized they failed to hear their wives? How many parents have not heard their children? How many elders and ministers have not heard their members concerns and suggestions? Unfortunately, it may be too late by the time we become aware of our shortcomings in these areas. The damage may already be done. One problem is that failure to listen is often symptomatic of a more significant problem – a lack of caring. Whether or not that is the case, can we blame others for that interpretation?
Third, this text is primarily about listening to God. This is often overlooked as we focus our attention on verse 19 and miss the surrounding context. Verses 17-18 show that God’s “word of truth” is a “perfect gift” given to us by God. We are to “receive with meekness” the “implanted word” which can save us (James 1.21). We are to be doers of the word and not “hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1.22). James taught some difficult truths in his letter. No doubt, some in his audience would fail to listen, express their own opinions instead, and become angry with the messenger.
If we fail to listen in other areas, is it possible that we approach God’s word with the same mindset which leads to this failure? How do I respond when my priorities are not reflected in God’s priorities? Will I hear what He is saying? Do I trust Him enough to simply listen? I truly believe, as a Christian, that starting here affects the way I listen to other people.
Listening significantly impacts all relationships, including God and our families. It is a tool to build up, or a means to destroy. Everyday we decide who we deem worthy of hearing. If we truly want to build up, then listening is necessary. Sometimes when we listen more in one area, our listening in other areas becomes even less. It is not easy to listen to people whose opinions and beliefs differ from our own. And listening doesn’t imply that I automatically agree. When I listen to my children, I don’t always do what they desire or agree with them. However, listening leads to understanding. Understanding affects how I act and react in the future.
As a father, husband, friend, Christian, minister, and human being, I know that my listening needs to improve. Based on what I see around me, I doubt I am alone. Do you value other’s enough to listen? I can do better. Can you?