LISTENING.
(Sparkling Gems)

James 1:19
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.

There is definitely a difference between hearing and listening. When we hear, it doesn't always mean we are listening. To listen to be active and engaged in the conversation or activity. James reminds us to master the skill of listening. A lot of us don't have this skill because in our society nowadays, we love to talk (I do! hahah) about different things. We need more listeners. Let's master it.

I need to just talk less. I remember before when I just used to absorb everything by listening to others (not eavesdropping! hahah) but just hearing and understanding (listening) what they tell me or they are talking about. I am guilty that there are a lot of times I don't listen when someone is telling me something (ie. Julia, my students, etc) because I am so caught up doing something else. I need to learn how to value what they are saying, so I could also react appropriately.

Lord, please help me to shut my mouth :) Help me to master the art of listening. To actively engage in the conversations that I have with people and to listen their heart out so I can appropriately respond to what they need me to do/be. Make me a blessing oh God by being a good listener. Guide me and lead me to the right words at all times. Thank you Jesus. Amen.