A Prayer for Becoming a More Attentive, Engaged Listener

From Gospel Translations

Know this, my beloved brothers: Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness that God requires. James 1:19-20

Cease to hear instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. Prov. 19:27

If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame. Prov. 18:13

Dear Lord Jesus, I need these Scriptures today about listening, a lot. For more than once, people who love me have indicated their frustration with my listening skills—or worse, my commitment to take what they say seriously.

You’ve given me two ears and one mouth, and the anatomical ratio is no mere accident. Help me become a much more engaged, attentive listener. Help me hear what people are meaning to say, not what interpretation I place on their words. Help me to listen with my heart, not just with my ears.

Jesus, no one does this better than you. No one is more quick to listen. I never have to snap my fingers to get your attention. I never have to reel you back into focus. I never catch you looking away, as though you’re bored with me. I never have to repeat myself several times to make sure you heard what I actually said.

You never interrupt me. You never spin what I’m saying. You never talk over me when I’m trying to tell you something. You never finish my sentences for me, though you could. There’s no one who listens as attentively, respectively, and compassionately as you.

Jesus, I don’t think I need healing for deafness, but more grace for listening—first and foremost to you. You’re always speaking to me through the Scriptures by the Holy Spirit, and you only speak words of life. What a foolish man I am not to hang onto every syllable you utter.

Help me give my wife, my children, and my friends the gift of being really heard. I find no joy in frustrating the very people who love me. Bring the gospel to bear in such a way that I will become more notorious for my good listening than for my frequent speaking.

It’s a humbling joy to confess specific sin to you today, Lord Jesus. I’m confident of your care and help. So very Amen I pray, in the trustworthiness and riches of your great name.