One of the most loving ways to communicate is by listening intently to the words you’re hearing in addition to focusing on the feelings that are driving the spoken words. Listening to words and feelings requires a conscious decision to shut out intrusive thoughts that steal attention away from what you’re hearing.
Choosing to listen with intentions to remember what is said takes appreciation and respect for the listener. Squelching the compulsive need to formulate a response before the other person has finished their thought or idea is required for effective communication. Failure to communicate is linked to inattentive listening habits.
Partial listening occurs when you fail to shut out distractions. You must acknowledge the speaker you’re listening to as being worthy of your complete attention and respect. Listening intently as a person shares their heart and soul is demonstrating your appreciation and love. Christ Jesus listens as we approach him with our need to be heard.
Wise men and women are always learning, always listening
for fresh insights.
~Proverbs 18:15 The Message
And we are sure of this, that [God] will listen to us
whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will.
~1 John 5:14 The Living Bible
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