Help Us to Listen
Scripture
“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” — Proverbs 18:13 (ESV)
For further reading: Proverbs 18:10-15
Prayer
Father, we praise You because of who You are. Thank You for being our God who listens. You hear our every prayer and know the depths of our hearts. Thank You for understanding even the things we struggle to put into words. Thank You for the patience and wisdom You show us.
Help us to become better listeners. Slow us down when we are already forming our response before someone has finished speaking. Keep us from assuming we know what someone means, jumping to conclusions, or responding to something we haven't fully understood. Give us the humility to listen carefully, ask questions, and seek understanding before we offer our opinion. Help us remember that the very act of listening is an expression of love.
In our relationships, help us to listen in a way that makes people feel heard and valued. Give us patience with the people closest to us, especially when we think we already know what they are going to say. Help us listen not simply to respond, but to understand. When there is disagreement, keep us from rushing to defend ourselves or prove our point. Teach us that sometimes the most loving thing we can offer someone is our full attention.
Lord, give us wisdom not only in what we say, but in when we say it. Help us remember that listening requires humility, patience, and love. May we be people who are slow to speak and eager to understand, and may our conversations reflect the grace You continually extend to us. Teach us to listen well—to You and to one another. In Jesus’ name - Amen.
Questions for Reflection
Do I truly listen, or am I often preparing my response while someone else is still speaking?
How might my relationships change if I became more interested in understanding than being understood?
Grace & peace to you today - Michelle
