November 19, 2025

“A fool’s way is right in his own eyes, but whoever listens to counsel is wise.” – Proverbs 12:15

When I first began doing pastoral counseling, I quickly learned that at least 90% of it is listening. If someone walks into my office and I believe I already have a fix for their problem, then I have already failed them. To truly help someone you must first truly hear them. However, this idea of listening first holds true in all relationships, not just counseling. If you go into any kind of discussion with your mind already made up exactly what you are going to say and how you are going to say it, you have prepared for a speech, not a conversation.

By and large, I believe our culture has lost the art of listening. This error has led to the very ugly political climate in our country today. No one listens. Many times, the other person has points that you have not thought about. Many times, they have a great heart behind their motives, even if you don’t agree on how to move forward. And believe it or not, sometimes the other person knows a lot more than you do. Even if the other person is 100% wrong and their heart is dark with sin, you will be more informed by listening first and speaking later. When I am evaluating maturity in those God has called me to shepherd, more than knowledge, I look for the ability to truly listen. The fool is happy to spout out their own opinion. The one who is wise will always listen first.

Heavenly Father, I know that as we pray You hear the most foolish and immature things from our lips. And yet, in Your loving wisdom, You listen. Please give us a heart that is willing to hear those around us. Let our ears be just as well trained as our mouths.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon