ANSWERING BEFORE LISTENING

LISTENING EARS

Read Proverbs 18–19

     Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. Proverbs 19:27 NIV

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     Solomon continues to speak to his son about guarding his tongue and using his ears: "A fool," he says, “finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.” (18:2)

     He goes on to say, “He who answers before listening–that is his folly and his shame.” (18:13) “The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him.” (18:17)

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     To make a wise judgment, both parents and children need to listen carefully, because “the heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out.” (18:15)

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     Dear Lord, I know that I am guilty of answering before listening. As a busy mother/grandmother it is easy to jump into a matter between my children and make a judgment based on what seems obvious. Help me to listen for the underlying hurt, anger or frustration in my grandchildren. Give me an understanding heart, and the patience to teach them to “Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.” (19:20)

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     Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.   Proverbs 23:12