Proverbs 21:28 
“A false witness will perish, 
but a careful listener will testify successfully.” (NIV)

“A false witness will be cut off, 
but a credible witness will be allowed to speak.” (NLT)

“A lying witness is unconvincing; 
a person who speaks truth is respected.” (MSG)

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Deep listening leads to success. This is a shared success. People who have been heard find clarity. People who hear clearly stimulate additional clarity. 

People who listen deeply before offering observations or expressing thoughts can provide insight and assistance that no other conversation partner can. 

Among the most respected people you and I know are those who listen deeply. They do not rush into or out of conversations. Stillness and silence make them ever more helpful. They say more with a look or a hum or a groan than others can with a mouth full of words. 

Leaning in to listen is a gift we can offer all day, every day. It is an invocation and a benediction. It is a blessing that unburdens. It is a benefit that enhances. It is a skill worth practicing and improving. 

Who will you bless today with your two ears? 

Who will you encourage with words fitly spoken after listening deeply? 

Proverbs 25:11, 12 builds our understanding of these truths:

“Timely advice is lovely, 
like golden apples in a silver basket. 
To one who listens, valid criticism 
is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.”
‭‭(‭NLT)

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‬I will listen deeply so that I can speak wisely. 

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Our Father, remind me as often as necessary that you gave me two ears and one mouth for a reason. Bring me to the place where my default position is to listen deeply before expressing thoughts or opinions. Bless me with words that encourage and edify. Make me an ever more careful listener. Amen.