Proverbs 29:20 There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking. (NLT)
There is a passage about listening that I often share with students. It says, essentially, that most people don’t listen to hear, they listen to respond. Take a moment and read that again. Let it sink in.
Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a [conceited] man who speaks quickly [offering his opinions or answering without thinking]? There is more hope for a [thickheaded] fool than for him. (AB)
If we are listening to respond, we are already formulating answers while the speaker is still speaking. If we listen to hear, then we are listening to what’s said and what’s not said, the implications, the tone. If we are listening to hear, responding isn’t even necessary.
Proverbs 29:20 There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking. (CEV)
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that I need to listen to hear and not just to respond. Help me to be a beacon of hope, shining Your light for all. Draw me closer. Amen.
Proverbs 29:20 Have you met a person who is quick to answer? There is more hope for a fool than for him. (GWT)
Have a blessed day.