Proverbs 18:15 “Wise men and women are always learning,
always listening for fresh insights.” Message

I heard a country song this week “Shut Up and Kiss Me”. You never know where inspiration will spring from. If I could write a song I think I would title it “Shut Up and Listen”. (Thank God, my mom is 600 miles away she would smack me for saying shut up; we don’t say shut up.) Sorry mom, just trying to make a point here. We can’t learn, or observe, or perceive, if we are always talking. Heed the wisdom; wise men and women are “always” learning. Let’s make it clear, wise men and women are always listening.

Most of us make the mistake of thinking that waiting our turn to speak is listening. Real, effective, life changing listening is grounded in self-denial. If you are willing to deny yourself a moment of expression you may have something beneficial and edifying to say in the future.

Listening is self-discipline and the conscious desire to expand your understanding of others and the world around you. Can’t speak for you but as for me, I really need a lot of work in the discipline of listening.
I am on my way home to listen to Rose Marie. When she reads this, she will have a lot to say about my listening problem. Pray for me.

Hoping to find fresh insights, join me in the struggle…listen.

From my heart

Mark