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“Counseling through the Word” Devotional: Listening with Wisdom

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“Counseling through the Word” Devotional: Listening with Wisdom

Scripture: Proverbs 18:13, 17 (ESV)

  • Proverbs 18:13 – “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”
  • Proverbs 18:17 – “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.”

In our fast-paced world, it can be tempting to jump to conclusions or give quick answers without truly listening. But Proverbs teaches us the importance of listening with wisdom, especially when it comes to understanding others and making well-informed decisions. These verses remind us that listening is an essential part of living wisely and that hasty judgments can lead to folly and shame.

Devotional Thought

Listening well is not just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the heart behind them. Proverbs 18:13 warns us against the dangers of giving an answer before fully hearing the matter. This applies not only to conversations with others but also to our approach to God’s Word. How often do we rush to conclusions without taking the time to truly listen to what God is saying?

Proverbs 18:17 reinforces this principle by reminding us that the first perspective we hear may seem convincing until we take the time to hear the other side. This is a valuable lesson in discernment, teaching us to withhold judgment until we have gathered all the necessary information. Whether it’s a disagreement with someone, a decision we need to make, or a situation we’re trying to understand, wisdom calls us to listen carefully and seek the full picture.

In relationships, this kind of listening fosters understanding and empathy. It allows us to approach conflicts with grace and humility, recognizing that there is often more to the story than we initially perceive. By listening well, we reflect God’s character, who is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Bringing it Home: Applying What We Learned

  • Practice Active Listening: The next time someone shares with you, resist the urge to respond immediately. Focus on truly understanding their perspective before offering advice or solutions.
  • Seek the Full Picture: In any situation, take the time to gather all the information before making a judgment. This will help you approach decisions with wisdom and fairness.
  • Reflect God’s Patience: Remember that God is patient with us, always listening to our prayers. Let this truth encourage you to be patient and attentive in your interactions with others.

Prayer

Lord, help me to listen with wisdom and patience. Give me the discernment to understand others fully before I speak, and guide me in making decisions that honor You. May my listening reflect Your grace and love. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

  • How often do I rush to conclusions without fully understanding the situation?
  • In what ways can I improve my listening skills to better reflect God’s character?
  • How can I apply the principles of Proverbs 18:13 and 18:17 in my daily life?

By embracing these practices, we can make well-informed decisions, foster deeper relationships, and reflect God’s love and patience in our lives.

Take the Next Step on Your Journey

Thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, https://jameslongjr.org/. You can also watch my video on my YouTube channel.

Finally, would you consider joining our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching, where you’ll find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community, and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation?

Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God’s grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope, and joy in Christ

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