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Today's letter is dealing with the art of listening. It is something we practice, overlook or completely ignore.

The Art of Listening

Several years ago while in search of a better way of living, I came across various resources dealing with listening. It takes practice and giving up of one's self.

My main reason for listening has become the Holy Spirit. It is automatic and listening to Him has given me great rewards.

Talking to Him is good, (do not get me wrong), but listening is far greater.

When God speaks, He leads, guides, teaches or confirms the truth. His words usually brings about such peace that no matter what it looks like in the natural, we know His Word is supernatural and when mixed with faith, can change all things.

Here are some of the instructions given that may benefit you also.

1. We listen when we stop talking and actually hear what the other person is saying.

2. We listen when we politely make eye contact and show an interest in what the other person is saying ( trying to explain or clarify).

3. We listen when we put the other person first by not interrupting or rushing to finish their sentences (especially with phone conversation).

4. We listen when we become quiet and display compassion to the person needing to be heard.

5. We listen when we can speak the truth in love and respond to the other person (rather than fuss and yell).

6. We listen when our body language, facial expression and tone of voice are in sync with hearing the other person.

7. We listen when we become quiet enough to hear what the person is saying and minister back to them what the Spirit is telling us to say in response.

8. We listen when it becomes necessary to do even when it is not convenient to our flesh (especially with children, of any age).

If we do not listen to them... someone else will. When it comes to our children listen without judgment. Hear from God before responding and your relationship will bond for better not worse.

It amazes me how much we pray to God for wisdom: for our children and us.

And when the children have something of value to say, we label them as rebels or something else (smart mouth) and dismiss what they have to say.

(We "wonder" why they are no longer opening up and sharing any info with us). Let us adults change this today! Children are human beings...honest (smile).

9. We listen when we can be mature enough to let the other person shine and take the spot light rather than attempt to out match them.

10. We listen when we have a heart full love and although we may not agree with all that is being spoken, we find ways to encourage and give respect.

(Learn to leave any relationship with some dignity: yours and the other person's).

Note: I use to take pride in debating every topic of conversation, as if I were an expert in every thing in life. One day my words cut so harsh and deep until the Holy Spirit allowed me to feel the effects of the very same words I had carelessly sown.

It affected me so much... until the whole church service was dampened. Every song, every musician, every praise singer lost the anointed...all because my words attacked the music director!

I use to be a fool! Can YOU hear me now? Ha! Please learn from this letter.

11. We listen when we hear something and through hell or high water choose not to repeat, reveal or gossip about it to others. (Unless it involves saving lives, reporting to authorities, or being led by the Holy Spirit for a true and powerful testimony).

The art of listening is allowing the person (s) you are now hearing space, time and access to you.

It involves caring beyond appearance, education or income status.

It is being led by Love and can be applied to any relationship: single, married, divorced or on hold; at home, work, school, play, in business, sports and every place you are surround by people.

If what you are hearing is not true, the Holy Spirit will let you know.

You do not have to receive a lie or any form of deception, but you do have be an Ambassador of Love. This is who you are, In Him. It cannot be faked.

Try sowing the art of listening and see what a change it makes in your life. It will affect every one around you, as well. Others will come to you and draw from the wisdom of God working in your life.

The anointing will increase as never before to meet the need of those in your path.

Listening gives you the advantage. It empowers you with knowledge, understanding and discipline.

Besides if you want God to listen to you, start listening, to Him.

If you no longer want to feel neglected, in conversations with others, start by listening to them (sow) and someone will start listening to you (reap).

Until next time, Peace & Blessings!

Nikki