In our everyday interactions, it is commonly observed that many people fail to actively listen with the genuine intention of understanding others. Instead, they are focused on formulating a response. The key to engaging in meaningful conversation is to be a good listener. Listening is a captivating and intriguing phenomenon, possessing a powerful ability to transform lives. We are naturally drawn to the friends who listen to us. When someone truly listens to us, it has a profound impact on our being. It allows us to grow, develop, and reach our full potential. God instructs us to listen well: “Be quick to listen and slow to speak” (James 1:19). When we listen to others, they start to understand the importance of what they say. They also discover the true meaning of their thoughts and learn more about who they really are. Listening is beautiful because it makes people feel accepted, uplifted, and encouraged. It is a form of spiritual hospitality.
The stories of the woman at the well (John 4:5–30), the woman caught in adultery ( John 8:2–11), and the disciples traveling to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35) demonstrate Jesus’s exceptional ability as a listener. Jesus did not listen to people solely for the purpose of finding something to criticize.
The Lord attentively listened to people, using His eyes, ears, and whole mind. He understood that one of the most effective ways to minister to people was by actively listening to them.
The Lord, being a discerning listener, was not quick to believe everything that He heard. He typically starts His ministry by actively and attentively listening. Even when He is asked a question, He responds with another, gently probing and softly inviting whoever approaches Him to open up and reveal themselves. He does not impose. He is a good listener. Although He knows all things as God, yet He demonstrates great patience by allowing each individual to disclose only as much about themselves as they are comfortable with.
Beloved, there are many people who long to find someone who will listen to their problems and show them compassion. To be like Jesus, we must be willing to lend an ear and offer our support. In the Gospels, it is evident that Jesus is highly attentive to the needs of Peter and the other fishermen. He is equally engaged with them as He is with everyone He meets. He is fully aware of them, their lives, their interests, and their joys and sorrows. When He is in the company of fishermen, He engages in conversations about fishing. When He is with farmers, He engages in conversations about seeds, soil, and weeds. Jesus is constantly attentive to the individuals He encounters, making them feel as though they are the only ones in His presence. He demonstrated His concern for their emotional, social, and spiritual restoration as well.
Listening is an expression of love. It means dedicating your time, attention, and care to someone else. Just by listening to someone, you can change their lives.
I pray that Almighty God will help us become vessels of understanding and empathy, allowing us to recognize the significance of listening in all our interactions. We should humbly put aside our egos and adopt an open mindset, so that we can sincerely listen to the words and emotions of others with discernment and empathy. By recognizing and deploying the transformative power of patiently listening to others, we can have a positive impact on their lives.
Remain Blessed
Pastor Jerry Orhue
