Daily devotion – Are you listening, really?
Listening with the Heart
Have you ever wondered why God gave us two ears and one mouth? How different we would be if He had decided to reverse that design in our lives!
James 1:19 – So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
How much listening do you do? Are you a good listener—or are you simply waiting for your turn to speak?
Husbands, when was the last time you truly listened to your wife—really listened—as she shared something that was troubling her?
Mum and Dad, when was the last time you listened intently to one of your children—not thinking about what’s next on your list, but focusing on the words and emotions they were sharing with you?
Because behind every word is a person—someone telling you more than just sentences. Did you catch the concern in their voice? The hesitation before sharing something difficult? The fear or uncertainty hidden between their words? Are you listening with your heart, not just your ears?
It’s often in what they don’t say—the unfinished sentences, the repeated phrases, the cautious tone—that they’re really asking, “Are you listening? Do you care?” – That child who really needs you to help them!
Aren’t you thankful that God listens to us? He understands what we mean even when our words fail.
David prayed,
Psalm 5:1–3 (NLT) – O LORD, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to no one but You. Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD. Each morning I bring my requests to You and wait expectantly.
This week, try speaking less. Make a deliberate effort to listen more—not just with your ears, but with a heart full of grace and love. You’ll begin to notice how much more is being said—and how much more God wants you to see.
Mark 4:23–24 – “If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given.”