Lately, I have been praying for the opportunity to learn and become a better listener. Those who know me, know that I love to talk, but currently, I am in a season of improving my listening skills. I pray the Lord’s voice becomes more recognizable. Meditation on the Word of God is my first step in deciphering God’s voice and will. Following, I believe it is important to learn from others who make up the body of Christ. We have all been given spiritual and practical gifts/strengths in order to add to the body and to glorify the Father. Following my desire to hear the Lord’s voice, I want to learn how to listen intentionally to my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
This world and my generation have been taught that their feelings, opinions and own voice should be put first, but that is the opposite of the Gospel. The Gospel reminds us this life is not our own, and is truly about serving our neighbors in love. Though I am guilty of being prideful and selfish in moments where I should not be, I want to have an ear to listen so I can enter into my sister or brothers pain. Most times I listen to respond, rather than to receive and process. The spirit has been convicting me for a while to practice listening in order to love and serve others better.
Thankfully, I have been blessed in this season to have wise elders and role models surrounding me. Everyday opportunities arise to learn and listen. Honestly, listening without an intention to respond is hard, tiring, and unnatural to me. In the process of learning to listen better, I have been blessed with more teachable opportunities, knowledge, and even intimacy with people. Recently, a friend thanked me for listening just to listen and not to respond. My friend felt important and heard because I put my selfish desire to be heard aside. All the glory belongs to God for that. I could not have done it without the process of God’s continual work of sanctification. I am still in the process or practicing and learning to listen well and with intentionality.
Thank you Lord, for convicting me of my selfish desires of listening in order to respond. I pray that you continue to search my heart, and show me what is displeasing to you. Thank You Jesus, for being an example of how to serve, live and die for others. God thank you for the fruit of intimate conversations, love, humility, and patience that I have already seen. Forgive me for the opportunities I did not take advantage of, and please continue to bless me with more opportunities to listen and learn. All glory to you.
In Jesus Name,
Amen
