9.10.16

 
 
 
Devotional for Saturday, September 10, 2016
“The Ready Listener”
 
quick to hear Oct 2014
 
by Dona Hake
 
 

James 1:19 (AMP)

 

“Understand [this], my beloved brethren.

Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener],

slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.”
 
 
 
 I think of how many arguments and misunderstandings that would be avoided if this simple truth were taken heed to.   This verse has a wealth of wisdom in it for us to hear the words spoken around us. It  shows us that it is  important to listen to another’s heart for the unspoken words and feelings they may be feeling. Many times we may feel that we have the right answer for someone yet it is not the appropriate time for that word to be spoken. As we take care to listen, our words spoken will be appropriate and edifying to the listener. 
 
 

Let us ask the Lord to have sensitive hearts that we will listen more closely to those around us. Many times we may indeed know what that individual may need but we need to ask the Lord for the proper season to share it.

 
 
Proverbs 25:11 (AMP)
“A word fitly spoken and in due season is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
 
 
 

Listening to someone may be the greatest gift you could give them. Choice words are even a greater gift to one that is in need. After you have listened carefully you will find they will be much more apt to hear your heartfelt and choice response.    Oh the times that we will be spared from being tempted to anger if we only slow up and carefully listen.  I believe the Lord can help us to guard our tongues that our words will be as choice silver and gold, He can help us be good listeners that we do not enter into offense, and neither cause it.  Thank you Lord for helping us this day to be careful with the words that we speak.  Help us to stop and be attentive listeners that we can respond in a godly way with Your help.   In Jesus Name, amen.