Are you listening?

Our days are filled with noise. From the moment we awaken each morning to the moment we drift off to sleep each night, we sift through a barrage of never-ending sounds. We hear the alarm, the shower water, the coffee pot, footsteps, voices, doors creaking, birds singing…the list is endless.

Though we hear many sounds, we aren’t always tuning in and listening to each one. A baby’s cry or someone calling your name will get your attention, but you likely don’t even notice when you hear the air conditioner running or cars driving past outside your window.

Hearing is defined as the ability to perceive sound. Hearing, if you are fortunate enough to be blessed with a healthy auditory system, is passive. Listening is another matter entirely. It is an active and conscious process. It is only by listening that the sounds we hear take on meaning. When we listen and focus on what we are hearing, we gain understanding that allows us to respond appropriately to the situation or message.

Recently, I have realized that I am often a pretty poor listener, and I am not proud of what that says about me. Am I so self-consumed that I cannot be bothered to really listen, to become aware of someone’s heart and offer compassion, sympathy, or even a little concern?

I am so thankful that I never have to wonder if God is truly listening to me. The Bible assures us that He is listening in Jeremiah 29:12, which says, “You will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” Jeremiah 33:3 goes a step further when it says, “Call to me and I will answer you, and I will show you great and mighty things, which you do not know,” reminding us that not only does God listen, but He promises to respond.

Thank you, Lord, that my prayers are not just noise to you, that You listen, and You answer. Teach me to truly listen to others and lead me to respond as You would.