Pay Attention and Listen
when people are talking about something important…
'One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. ' Acts 16:14
part of my problem in conversations with people is that i do ‘hear’ what they saying, just not necessarily that i am listening attentively that i will always remember and recall. in this passage it talks about The Lord opening lydia’s heart to respond, and the important part i overlooked is that she was ‘listening’ and worshipped God.
true active listening is a skill that can be learned. we just have to be open to it and change the way we are doing it now if we want to improve and get anything out of it. when i speak to my life group, the lead team, and really most people, i try to say it a few times in my head and/or write it down. it tends to stick better and can always reference it, if needed.
Father God, thank you for your help in tuning in and being mindful, respectful when other speak. if it is important enough, help me to make breakthroughs in the area of listening well, to seek first to understand then to be understood. thank you for your patience when i am out of touch in this area. to you, Jesus, goes all the glory and honor. in your mighty name we pray, amen!