Four14 "He who has Ears, let him hear"

photo by ben tubby
As I review my lesson today for tomorrow nights talk at Four14, I want to add material regarding biblical principles of listening.

Two principles stand out to me. First, let the other person speak without interruption. Read Proverbs 18:13. Second, make listening to the other and not speaking your priority. Read James 1:19; Proverbs 10:10 and 17:27.

I find this skill of listening to be so difficult. I discover that while someone is talking, I am beginning to think about what I want to say rather than actively listening to what the person is saying. I am guilty of poor listening. But I thank God that I can learn new habits that will improve my relationships.

I googled for a helpful place to visit for more practical ideas for active listening, and I found a blog post by David Gray who lists the ten commandments of active listening. His suggestions help to flesh out what the biblical principles of listening look like in real life. I especially like the "use follow trails" tip. I did not like the first commandment, "empty your mind." I'd rather keep a sound mind instead. Anyways, please let me know how implementing the rules apply to your life--good or bad.