Have you ever been talking to someone and all the while, they are looking beyond you, or through you- anywhere but AT you! How frustrating and even degrading this can be!
Deep listening is healing. It creates a unique connection between both the speaker and the listener.
Genuine listening is:
1. Focused and non-judgmental
2. Trying to understand the speaker's point of view
3. Staying focused
4. Acknowledging what is being said through nodding or occasional comments
5. Responding in love
6. Providing feedback
Are you a good listener? When was the last time you really tuned into what the other person was saying rather than thought about the next thing you were going to say? Can you think about a time you were NOT a good listener? How did you feel after the conversation?
Our most important listening "assignment" is to practice hearing the voice of our Lord. Proverbs 1:33 says, "But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure without fear of eveil." By giving God our full attention while He is speaking, we can know His heart for us and become more familiar to His gentle voice.
Remember, we have two ears and only one mouth. Today, may you be not only His mouthpiece of peace, but may you truly hear with His ears the cries of those who are hurting and alone all around you.
Following the path with you...
Deep listening is healing. It creates a unique connection between both the speaker and the listener.
Genuine listening is:
1. Focused and non-judgmental
2. Trying to understand the speaker's point of view
3. Staying focused
4. Acknowledging what is being said through nodding or occasional comments
5. Responding in love
6. Providing feedback
Are you a good listener? When was the last time you really tuned into what the other person was saying rather than thought about the next thing you were going to say? Can you think about a time you were NOT a good listener? How did you feel after the conversation?
Our most important listening "assignment" is to practice hearing the voice of our Lord. Proverbs 1:33 says, "But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure without fear of eveil." By giving God our full attention while He is speaking, we can know His heart for us and become more familiar to His gentle voice.
Remember, we have two ears and only one mouth. Today, may you be not only His mouthpiece of peace, but may you truly hear with His ears the cries of those who are hurting and alone all around you.
Following the path with you...