Read James 1:19
"Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger."
Devotional
Have you ever been so focused on making your point that you stopped listening?
Jesus listened to people. He asked questions. He cared about what they were going through.
When someone believes differently than you, your goal isn't to win an argument. Your goal is to love them well. Listening doesn't mean you agree with everything someone says. It means you respect them enough to hear them before responding.
People are much more likely to listen to someone who first listens to them.
Journal Prompts
- Do you usually listen first or talk first during disagreements?
- How could becoming a better listener help your friendships?
Prayer
God, help me listen with patience and speak with wisdom. Let my words reflect your love. Amen.