Having laid a foundation for James’ discussion of speech in the previous two videos, we’re ready to dive into more of the details. In this third video of the Wise Words series, we’ll talk about the source of wisdom and our responsibility in acquiring it. .
If you missed the introductory video, you can find it here.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about these ideas! Beyond that, what fruit have you seen in your life or community when people take the time to listen to others? Have you seen a growth in wisdom? I’m looking forward to learning from you!
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© 2019-2024 Jennifer Brown Jones
Life Beyond #Blessed 
Ooooh…I realized how much this reveals impatience! Thank you for spurring thoughts in my heart and mind, my friend!
Flipping the idea of being good listeners on its head, if we are people who choose to learn and listen well, how well do we engage with those around us who do not seem to be open to listening?
I have long been taught to listen to a wide variety of speakers (and writers — using “speakers” loosely), comparing what they say to the Word and allowing my mind to be stretched beyond my traditional understandings while also standing firm in solid, known truths.
But many people in our churches have been so strongly cautioned against “strange teachings” that they consider it disobedience to listen to any voices that disagree with what they’ve always been taught. As a result, they highly limit their listening, thus limiting their growth.
How do I respond to them? How do I interact with them? I am supposed to be a good listener. But am I also a good speaker? Do I speak truth or condemnation into the lives of others? Encouragement or criticism? Dismissal or patience?
All to often, I am very impatient. Oh how I need to repent of that attitude and change that behavior!
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I certainly understand the struggle, Ann! I’ve been meditating on this very question and would love to kick around some ideas with you. One that comes to mind is that Scripture models being a discerning listener in Proverbs. (I’ll get into that over the next few weeks.) If Scripture models something and Scripture tells us to listen, then why aren’t we? Is it because of fear? Is it unwillingness to change? Is it because people are teaching us we shouldn’t listen and we trust them? Lots of food for thought!
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