Lisening

I am discovering how hard it is to really listen to others. I work at listening, really listening with my heart to what others are saying, and yet the Lord is showing me where I lack in listening skills. Last night while leading a lay counseling training, the Lord brought to mind the importance of listening with my whole being to my husband Mike. I am a much better listener to others than I am to my husband. You've probably heard before that there is a reason that we have "two ears and one mouth". We should listen more and speak less...I have to agree that I learn more when I am listening and not speaking. But there is more than just being quiet to listening. I have to engage with what they are actually saying, and put aside what I am thinking, to REALLY hear what they are saying.  How often are you thinking of your response when listening rather than listening and then taking time to think about what was just said? I know that I can improve in this area with my husband and I want to. He hasn't asked me to change, but I know it is an area of my life that needs tuning up, and I WANT the change. 

Last night I committed to a plan of action with my husband. I committed to physically stop and give him my full attention when he is speaking and really listen to HIM, to HIS heart, and show value to what he is sharing with me. Thus giving him respect and the love and value that we all desire.  I'll keep you posted on how I'm doing!