LISTENING means to pay attention, to close our mouths and open our ears to hear God and others. It is also the act of applying God’s Word into our lives! When we listen, we open our minds and hearts to the Truth of our Lord. We will also hear what godly people are saying to sharpen us and know when there is an error. It is the person who listens who exhibits good character and godliness. This moves us into the act of actually applying our Christianity, to be doers of the Word. I have included some Bible references for your guidance (Proverbs 28:13-14; Mark 3:7-8; John 8:47; Romans 12:15; Colossians 3:12; James 1:2-27; 1 John 1:8-9).

Listening combines the characters of Attentiveness that recognize the value of others (Proverbs 12:15; Mark 4:21-25; 16:24; Hebrews 2:1), and the character of Communicating that gives to others our respect, courtesy, and total concentration (Proverbs 27:9; 1 Timothy 4:12). Both of these characters, together with listening, are God’s call upon us to respond to others. But, Listening goes beyond these as it is a skill that we further develop. It is also the quintessential skill we need in order to be doers of His Word and to apply His precepts into our lives; it also helps build the lives of others. Is your faith weak? Are you listening to God? The first job of a Christian who wants to grow in his or her faith formation is listening. Effective listening is essential to growing in faith or building a friendship! This must transpire so we can be “doers of the word, not hearers only” (James 1:22). How we choose to listen and lead our life will prove if we belong to God or are living just for ourselves (Luke 8:21).

Why is this so important? Because; each of us has a deep need to be heard, whether we admit it or not. It can be a casual conversation or a deep therapy session; if you feel that the other person is not listening, then you feel they do not care about you. Being listened to is a lot like being loved; so, we must take this matter seriously and grow in this skill. Listening is not just hearing; it is actively participating in a conversation with your full attention, and putting your own response on hold. Listening is something we all can do and are called to do, even if we are deaf. Listening is a natural ability and a skill that can be improved on; all it takes is the will to turn it on and let it work. We can also learn techniques to improve our abilities.

HH Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div