When to listen

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19 NIV)

If you stop listening, you will stray 

“Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.” (Prov. 19:27 ESV)

It is a shame and folly to answer before listening

“To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.” (Prov. 18:3 ESV)

A wise man listens 

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” (Prov. 12:15  ESV)

Listen for God’s voice 

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Rev. 3:20 ESV)

Therefore…

“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Matt. 11:15 ESV)

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” (Prov. 19:20 ESV)

Quotes:

“You see pain with your eyes, but you sympathize with your ears. Sometimes the greatest way to serve someone is just by listening. Behind every need is a story.” - Rick Warren

“Listen with the intent to understand, not the intent to reply.” - Stephen Covey