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IN HIS FOOTSTEPS: The Heart of Active Listening

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A Guide to Effective Leadership. 

Devotion 6. July 6, 2025

"So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." James 1:19

Effective communication relies heavily on listening skills. Poor listening can lead to poor judgment or misinformation, which can be detrimental, especially when addressing critical issues. To mitigate this, universities teach communication skills to prepare graduates and leaders to meet the demands of their communities through effective listening and communication. 

In the context of leadership, active listening is crucial. James's advice to his contemporaries, "Let every man be swift to hear," reminds us to give full attention, understand the message, and avoid interruptions. As leaders, we are called to listen actively by giving our undivided attention to those we lead, understanding their concerns, and refraining from interruptions. By doing so, we build trust, resolve conflicts, and improve communication with our team members. This approach also demonstrates that we value and appreciate their thoughts and opinions. 

Sadly, these principles are often misapplied in many circumstances, leading to conflicts in families, churches, and communities. Several biblical examples explain how poor listening to instructions led many to sin. A notable example is Adam and Eve's story in Genesis 3. Eve's response to Satan indicated that she did not listen actively to the instruction given to them (2-3).

In recent days, people have experienced the effects of poor listening from social media journalists. While this is true, leaders or believers tend to rush to a conclusion on an issue without properly listening to it, passing judgment, and ending up in conflict. This is what has been tearing families, churches, relationships, leaders, love, and unity apart. 

James said, "Be quick to listen but slow to speak and slow to wrath." I almost damaged my relationship with one of our senior elders because of rushing to listen (hearsay) without giving full attention and understanding the intended message conveyed, until I sought wisdom from God. The wisdom God gave me helped us come to peace after finding the truth of the matter. This experience taught me about the importance of active listening in leadership. 

Most leadership issues occur when leaders do not value the importance of active listening. However, God wants us to listen to voices and comprehend them purposely. Every leader needs this heart to avoid intentional conflicts and build trust with others. Let us strive to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to wrath, as James advised his contemporaries and as exemplified by Christ.

Think about these

In your daily interactions, how can you improve your listening skills? What experiences do you have because of poor listening? How can you apply active listening in your relationship and leadership today, as explained by James in his book?

Prayer

Dear God, help me to listen actively and purposely comprehend other people's voices. Give me wisdom to build trust, avoid conflict, and foster unity in my relationship. and leadership in the name of Jesus. Amen.

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