Listening Well

Listening Well

God did listen! He paid attention to my prayer. Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer or withdraw his unfailing love from me.

It had been a long day, and I was tired. Everyone was out of the house except for my teenage son. I’d just sat down to eat when he walked in and asked me a few questions while also explaining about his upcoming lacrosse game that evening. My response at first was brief. I was in the middle of reading an important email and was caught off guard by his presence.

As he left the room, the thought flitted across my brain, Don’t miss this chance to connect. I quietly shut my email down and called a question to him in the next room. He walked back in to answer, and we discussed school and how he was feeling about his game. Just as quickly as we’d begun, the conversation ended; my son’s friend had arrived, and he needed to leave. I wished him luck as he walked out the door, and he turned to give me a grin and a nod.

It took only ten minutes to connect with my son, just enough time for him to feel heard and, even more, to know that I value and love him. I hate to admit how often I miss the opportunity to listen well to those around me. I love my to-do list, and although getting things done is good, sometimes it can get in the way of building relationships. I’m not perfect at setting things aside, but I am getting better—it’s a skill I am intentionally pursuing.

The psalmist tells us that God listens! He pays attention to our prayers, he doesn’t ignore us or withdraw his unfailing love from us. We don’t have to wonder if he’s listening. As Christians, we can follow his example and listen to those around us as they share their lives with us. It’s one of the most endearing qualities in a friendship, this ability to listen well.

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Lend a listening ear to a friend who needs you.