“They Say We Don’t Listen…”

I know Jesus said to talk to people you have something against, but it won’t do any good because they won’t listen”

My question: “What did they say when you talked to them?”

Often the answer is, “I didn’t talk to them because it won’t do any good because they won’t listen.”

“How do you know they won’t listen if you haven’t talked to them?”

“Because everybody says they won’t listen.”

And those are some of the beakers in communication (practicing practical Christianity).

I don’t do what Jesus says when it is difficult, embarrassing, or uncomfortable.

Spreading and/or listening to gossip that comes to and from “everybody and they.”

It’s easier to blame and dodge than to engage in painful conversation.

However, is it possible that sometimes leaders don’t listen well, long, and patiently? Is there an element of truth in the comment, “They don’t listen?” Have I thought about growing in the Jesus-like skill of compassion?

Questions to Consider
  1. Do I listen? Listening is more than being silent when someone is talking. One definition of listening: “take notice of and act on what someone says; respond to advice or a request.”[bctt tweet=”Listening is more than being silent when someone is talking.” username=””]
  2. Do I let others finish what they want to say before I start preparing my reply? One of my weaknesses is thinking about my next speech while the other person is telling what is important to him.
  3. Do I freely accept, invite, and appreciate criticism? It’s easy for me to “tune out” when someone reminds me that not everyone agrees with me and values what I say and do. But that’s not wise. “Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, But he who hates correction is stupid” (Proverbs 12:1, NKJV).
  4. Do I subtly deflect criticism by using several of the following statements?
    Let’s think positive.
    We need to count our blessings.
    When we trust God, everything will work out.
    We don’t need to dwell in the past.
    It’s time to move on to the next level.
    We’ve talked about that enough.
    You need to respect your elders (preacher, deacons, parents, etc.).
  5. Am I practicing listening in a safe environment to be able to listen in a more challenging situation? You can’t read enough good books to play great basketball. You have to practice, practice, practice.
  6. How do I evaluate my listening? If I were the one expressing my concerns, questions, or criticism, and the person receiving my sincere thoughts responded as I usually respond, what would I say about how that person values me? Golden Rule: (Matthew 7:12).

Is it possible people say “they don’t listen” because I don’t listen very well?

How could I grow?

What will I do to become a more caring listener?

[bctt tweet=”It’s easier to blame and dodge than to engage in painful conversation.” username=””]

What blessings will I receive by believing that everyone can teach me something if I am willing to value the uniqueness and insight of every God-created person? (Philippians 2:3)

What have you done to improve your listening skills?
Please comment below.

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Jerrie Barber
Servant of Jesus, husband to Gail, father to Jerrie Wayne Barber, II and Christi Parsons, grandfather, great-grandfather, Interim Preacher, Shepherd coach, Ventriloquist, barefoot runner, ride a cruiser bicycle

4 Responses to ““They Say We Don’t Listen…”

  • Jim Harrison
    8 years ago

    To listen better, I’ve shut my mouth, looked the one speaking in the eye, and plugged into the message shared so as to make it mine.

    • Jerrie W. Barber
      8 years ago

      I like your response. You are thinking and listening intentionally.

  • Glen Rodgers
    8 years ago

    Good “stuff” Jerrie! I can’t be reminded of this too much!

    Thank you.

    • Jerrie W. Barber
      8 years ago

      Thank you for your encouragement and shepherding and your father before you.

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