Trouble Listening

Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.

Proverbs 18:13

I have been keeping a list of Bible verses that mention our mouths because, frankly, sometimes my mouth needs to be buttoned up.

At times I am as impulsive as the disciple Peter, who got so excited that he practically jumped out of a boat to walk on the water to Jesus, only to begin to falter and sink when he let his attention be diverted from the Lord.

Yes, my impulsiveness is often expressed verbally. I may interrupt someone out of excitement or fear that I am going to forget something important if I don’t blurt it out immediately. In fact, my early-morning phone friend, Daphne, and I are working on not interrupting each other, but it’s hard because we have a lot to cover in such a short amount of time!

Being talkative isn’t a bad thing, but the more talkative we are, the more we open ourselves up to can’t-take-back words flowing from our lips. Our family friend Skip used to say he did not enjoy being around BMWs (Big-Mouth Women). Abrupt, intrusive talk is not becoming to a godly woman or man.

“Lord, how many times have I answered a family member or a coworker or a friend without listening?”

When others speak, I want to listen because I really do care about them. Today’s verse reminds me to pause before letting every thought become verbal. The book of Proverbs is practical because it reveals so many of our weaknesses and our sin, but in such a positive way. Solomon tells us how to reflect more of Christ through these wise sayings.

God is the only perfect talker and listener. He hears everything, and He is always available. He never does or says anything wrong. He does not react impulsively, but instead responds thoughtfully for our good, even though the truth is sometimes difficult for us to hear. Because He wants us to reflect His gracious truth more fully, if we need help in this area, we only need to ask and listen.

Today let’s be wise women who listen for His wisdom. Let’s work on really listening to people without interrupting or thinking of the clever comebacks we have ready.