Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
Do not be quick with your mouth,
do not be hasty in your heart
to utter anything before God.
God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few. (King Solomon)
Ecclesiastes 5:1-2, NIV
Listening is an important discipleship skill for a number of reasons. First, disciples are learners. We do not learn anything by speaking, only listening. When we are talking, we are not receiving. Second, disciples are ministers. We are ministers to God and to others. A disciple who does not listen cannot hear the heart of the ones they want to bless. Lastly, disciples are lovers. Lovers are givers. One of the best ways to give is time with an undivided heart.
In this devotion, I want to emphasize the three people we should endeavor to listen to. The first is the Lord God. The verse above puts it plainly. When we approach the Lord we approach with a heart to listen rather than simply make our requests. He has much to say to you beyond making your life easier. He wants to heal and transform our hearts. King Solomon gives it to us straight, "less is better."
The second person you should listen to is the one in front of you. Being fully present with an undivided love is the way the bible describes it. This is such a challenge in our modern society where we are pulled on every side with and mimic ADHD behaviors due to multiple priorities and "monkey mind." We practice slowing down so we can be fully with the Holy Ones around us.
Lastly, we need to listen to our own hearts. As King Solomon says, "don't be hasty in your heart...". When we are not aware of what is going on inside of us, through anxiety, anger, etc., especially when listening to others, we will neither be empathetic nor grow in intimacy. A hasty heart does not process its emotions. Listen to your heart so you can grow in your communication with God and others.
Let's continue to grow in our listening. With it comes to grace and healing for you and for others.
Love, Pastor Stuart