Opening Prayer: Lord, may I walk this day confident that I am fully seen, deeply heard, and endlessly loved by God—and may that assurance overflow into the way I listen to others. Amen
Read 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 NIV “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
As women we often long to be understood. This longing can begin to consume us. I speak from experience, as a woman. I would be embarrassed at the number of times I have been “consumed” with this longing to be understood. I can begin to lose my mind from trying to be sure my words are executed in the very best way to convey exactly what it is that I mean to say, and in a way that would not offend or hurt someone in any way. And yet, many times, the point I am trying to make is taken the “wrong way,” and I feel this urgent call to make it right. This leads to more words….more confusion…..less patience and love!
But Scripture gently flips this focus: love begins when we choose to understand others first! Listening becomes an offering. When we listen well, we love well.
If I am honest with myself, I can always use more work in the “listening” department. My brain often is thinking of three different scenarios for each situation and conversation and I need to practice being present….truly present…so that I can listen well. Why? Because when we listen well, we love well.
Truth: Love is not proven by words spoken, but by ears willing to hear.
Prayer: Teach me, Lord, to love others with patient attention.
