“2 ears, 1 mouth.” – How many times was I told that? Chatty by nature, I remember a detention or two because of talking. I also remember my family and friends thinking it was so funny I chose ballet- the silent art.
Keeping my mouth shut on stage was pretty easy, the art of listening was harder to learn. To really hear someone else and not formulate prematurely what I’m going to say – takes practice! Especially when sharing my faith. Arguing will not win souls.
Keys that unlock:
Conversing with someone who believes differently from me, requires trying to see things from their perspective. Patiently observing, listening to understand their position, maybe even looking for a back-story. Sometimes body language offers a clue.
This kind of conversation goes a long way toward – “Loving others, as you Love yourself.”
Opposition should never threaten my own faith or shake my belief in God. It should give me insight into to how much God loves me, personally. Wasn’t I once in that very same spot needing someone to meet me right where I was… and lead me to the love and grace of God?
So “… dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear.” James 1:19 MSG
ForGlorySake! –Anna
