Are You Listening? 'Pay attention to how you hear' Luke 8:18

'Pay attention to how you hear' Luke 8:18
Most people love the sound of their own voice but it has been said that he who speaks much is much mistaken. James 1:19 says we 'should be quick to listen and slow to speak.' Surf through the book of Proverbs and you'll discover why: 'Answering before listening is both stupid and rude' (18:13); 'Simpletons only learn the hard way, but the wise learn by listening' (21:11);' Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights' (18:15 all TM). We may have the ability to hear but the art of listening is an important skill to develop, and the reason we need to develop this skill the most is found in Proverbs 3:5, 'Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all'. Three things you need to know about listening: 1) Listening doesn't happen naturally; it is a conscious choice. Choose today to improve your listening skills. Stop talking and start listening out for God's voice. 2) Listening may appear easy but it is often hard work. Don't panic if after 5 minutes you haven't heard God at all, it can take time to know God's voice. Enjoy the journey of discovery. 3) True listening requires you give another person your attention and possibly change your attitudes as you listen. 'Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do' (Romans 12:2 NLT). Are you listening?