Love That Listens

“So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”

James 1:19 (NKJV)

One of the most overlooked expressions of love is listening. Not hearing—listening. Hearing is passive. Listening is intentional. It says, “You matter. Your words matter. Your heart matters.”

In a world full of noise, interruptions, and distractions, listening has become rare. But when we slow down and give someone our full attention, we reflect the heart of God. He is the God who hears. The God who bends down to listen. The God who invites us to pour out our hearts before Him.

Listening is love in action. It requires humility—choosing to understand before being understood. It requires patience—resisting the urge to jump in with solutions or opinions. And it requires compassion—recognizing that behind every word is a person made in the image of God.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, one of the greatest gifts you can give someone is your presence and your attention. Love listens.

Application:

Choose one person today to intentionally listen to without interrupting. Ask one thoughtful question and let them share freely.

Closing Prayer:

Father, teach me to love others by listening well. Slow my reactions, soften my heart, and help me reflect Your patience and compassion. Make me attentive to the needs and stories of those around me. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!