The Art of Listening - Karen Huffaker

Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another, to show love, and to do good. Hebrews 10:24 GNT

I’ve never been a big talker, but I'm usually a pretty good listener. By profession, I had to be. In my work, until negotiations reached a mutual agreement, I listened to employee issues and concerns, my internal customers’ needs and requirements, and my vendors. It was good training. I might not have agreed with them, but I had to listen and often needed to do this with a nod and a smile.

I was humbled by how little I knew and learned more by listening than speaking. Rather than imparting my wisdom to them, I obtained wisdom from them.

Over time and through many prayer requests, I pictured God listening to me with a nod and a smile. It was as if He were saying, “I know, my child.” He’s the best of all listeners, even though He already knows my burdens and needs. More importantly, He’s already got it covered in His own way and as part of His plan.

When I listen to others—especially God—I gain knowledge, wisdom, and understanding and grow in my relationship with Him.

As we seek to understand, we empathize and put their concerns before ours. Communication goes to the next level. We sense the depth of their sorrow and pain, and our hearts are burdened. So, we pray for and with them. Our desire is to help, encourage, and lighten their burden.

Listening lets others see how we value and care about them. Relationships develop when we care for one another. Our value does not consist in things but relationships. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we belong to the family of God—a growing family of relationships. By listening, encouraging, and showing love, they will see the kind of love Jesus has for us.

We all long for someone to care about us. Life is also more meaningful if we care for others. Think of someone in your circle who could use a listening ear, a nod, a smile of encouragement, or a word of comfort.

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Karen Huffaker is a freelance Christian writer. She has taught children’s Sunday school and single mom’s Bible studies and written poetry. She is from the Deep South and loves reading Christian books, devotionals, genealogy adventures, fishing, and all things family. She is also passionate about her grandchildren’s sporting events. 

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