Forever Home in the Eternal Family of God

A Daily Devotional by Kenton Cheek

7 June 2024

Reading From Proverbs 16-18

“To answer before listening—
    that is folly and shame.” —Proverbs 18:13

I’ll be vulnerable here. I have been one of those who while in conversation, instead of actively listening and taking in what another person is saying, will wait until the other party takes a breath in order to pounce with my two cents worth. At times I am even guilty of talking over others. This is not a good way to come to real understanding and genuine relationship.

As brothers and sisters in the eternal family of God, we should strive to gain a better understanding of where each other comes from. Greater unity in the Body of Christ can be accomplished if we value one another enough to be good listeners. In conversation, let us allow one another to have their say and then be respectful enough to speak thoughtfully and kindly in return.

Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving] —James 1:19

“Thank You Lord for Your grace and mercy with me as I’m a work in progress. Holy Spirit, I pray that I would yield to Your work in my life as You produce the fruit of self-control. Give me the strength I need to be a better listener.”