Proverbs 1:3-4 (ESV)
3 to receive instruction in wise dealing,
in righteousness, justice, and equity;
4 to give prudence to the simple,
knowledge and discretion to the youth—
We need to listen carefully to God’s word, and be ready to put biblical truth into practice. We are bombarded with messages weekly, daily, even hourly, and much of the input we receive doesn’t line up with what God has revealed. As we learn, we need to compare what we hear with the Scripture. Because this filtering takes place in our minds, we need to see our brains as battlefields where we mentally combat everything inconsistent with the word. God’s wisdom produces what is correct, just, and fair. Worldly “wisdom” may seem right for a moment, but it results in regret. As we grow in wisdom and combat worldliness, we are called to help both the “simple” or gullible, those easily swayed, and the “youthful,” those who lack life experience, to grow spiritually. Helping others begins by engaging in meaningful conversation with them, the kind of conversation that won’t happen unless we take time to hear and thoughtfully ask questions about what others believe and why. So, whether receiving or giving wisdom, we need to listen. What would others say about you as a listener? Do you dominate conversations, or are you careful to hear and elicit information before you take and give advice? God designed us with two ears and one mouth. Let’s choose to ask thoughtful questions and then engage in listening at least twice as often as we speak today.