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James 1:19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.
It’s tough being a kid. There is so much to learn and figure out. You have all these feelings, and you don’t know where to put them or even how navigate through life. That’s why God gave kids parents and grandparents to help them, coach them, train them, guide them, and mentor them. One of our grandkids was having trouble expressing themselves. They were trying to talk to their cousins, and something was not working. The one trying to express themselves was getting frustrated because they wanted to just talk and have no one say anything. They were looking for an audience to listen intently to their monologue instead of having a conversation. It did escalate to where the one frustrated just started screaming. We stepped in and talked about conversation. I got a ball and said let’s play catch. I asked, “How do we do that?” The kids looked at me like I was crazy and said, “Papa, everyone knows how to play catch. I throw the ball, You catch it and then throw it back.” I responded, “What if I only want to throw the ball and don’t let you throw it back?” They replied, “Then that is not playing right and it’s no fun for everyone.” I explained that talking with people is like playing catch. I said, “You say something, and the other person receives it. That’s called listening. Then you say something and that is like throwing it back, and they listen to you. That’s a conversation. For if you want to be heard, you need to listen.” They seemed to get it because we had a great conversation as we passed the ball back and forth.
The Bible encourages us to be good listeners.
Proverbs 12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.
Proverbs 18:2 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.
Proverbs 18:13 If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
Proverbs 19:27 Cease to hear instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
There are too many monologues these days from politicians, to activists, to influencers, to the various avenues of social media. Maybe more could be accomplished if we actually had some good conversations. Yelling louder seems to make things worse.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Let’s try to have more conversation. For if you want to be heard, listen.
Church is a wonderful place to have great conversations. If you do not already have a church to attend, we would like to invite you to view or visit Neighborhood Church. We are a welcoming church and would love for you to connect with us! Our website has all the information you need for times and locations of all our Sunday gatherings. You can also find us online at neighborhoodchurch.com. As well, if you would like to view any of our past worship gatherings or videos, visit our YouTube channel, or just search Neighborhood Church Cypress or Neighborhood Church Los Alamitos on their YouTube site.
Seeking to play catch in conversations along with you,
Mike McKay
