Listening to others in our churches and ministries not only helps get them on board, as discussed in a prior post, but also enables us to better meet needs.
Think about it: We’re commissioned by Jesus to go and make disciples of all nations. But, other than “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything” He commanded (Matt. 28:19-20), Jesus didn’t provide detail about how to do it. Obviously, we need to keep listening to Him for the particulars. But, perhaps part of the process also involves discerning or assessing needs peculiar to the person(s) and setting.
When We Listen to Others, We’re Able to Discern Needs & Bridge the Gaps
There are so many unknowns in serving people that can only become known by listening. Time is so short and precious to waste it on efforts that fail to bridge the gap between who God wants people to be and where they are. We must take the time to listen so we can discern needs and bridge those gaps. — “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” (Prov. 18:15)
The Steering the Church Toward Discipleship Leadership Guide includes a few more thoughts about the benefits of listening to others in order to fulfill our mission.
All Posts about Listening Skills:
- Start by Listening to God
- Getting Others On Board Starts by Listening
- Listening, A Core Element of Body Life
- Why We Start by Listening to the Lord
- Why Listen to Others
- Jesus Actively Listened
- Christ-like Listening Communicates
- If Listening Doesn’t Come Naturally
- Is Listening One of Your Weaknesses?
- Listening Enhanced with the Help of the Holy Spirit
- Praying According to God’s Will Begins & Ends with Listening
- Want Someone to Listen?
- Scripture Equips Us to Listen
- Doing Everything in His Name Makes Us Better Listeners