September 11, 2007

Every Pastor believes that the Church he serves is somehow unique, in some way different from all the others in town and, at least in some sense, better. While I believe the SouthPoint Church is unique and in many ways different from other Churches in town, and in many ways better, there are some areas in which we still need to make improvements. One matter in which I am acutely aware of as a deficiency in my own life is in the area of listening.

I am reminded of a passage in James 1:19, which says, “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” (NLT)

Am I quick to listen? Well, some days I think I am and yet at other times I don’t seem to care at all what people are thinking, feeling, or saying. I say these things to my own shame.

Too many strong personalities are compulsive talkers. Too often, we are not listening at all, only waiting for the other person to breathe so we can take over the conversation and express our point of view. However, genuine listening seeks to understand others without prejudging them or what they are about to say.

J. Oswald Sanders put it this way, “A problem is often half-solved when it is stated.”

Christians, we should listen intently and speak infrequently.

Waiting for the prompting of the Holy Spirit is difficult but will prove to be a valuable asset in the Kingdom of God, here on earth. Godly men and women know that time spent listening is well invested. To be able to listen to others in a sympathetic and understanding manner is perhaps the most effective mechanism in the world for getting along with our brothers and sisters in the Church. It is also a valuable means of opening the door of conversation with unbelievers regarding their relationship with Christ.

Please join me in the prayer that all of us at The SouthPoint Church will be “quick to listen” and “slow to speak.”

Pastor David