Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
Deuteronomy 1:17 – Proactive Listening
Everyone, at some time in their lives, finds themselves in the position of listening. Some listening is designed for nothing more than allowing the speaker to “sound off” or “think out loud.” Afterwards, even without you saying anything, they conclude with, “Thanks for listening.” Some listening goes beyond that where the speaker ends by saying “So what do you think?” When we find ourselves involved in proactive listening, here is some wisdom for those thought to be and hoping to be wise from Moses.
Deuteronomy 1:17 HCSB (17) Do not show partiality when rendering judgment; listen to small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. Bring me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.
Lesson #1 – Do Not Be Partial
Being biased hinders advice because it becomes tainted by emotions and feelings, whether of like or dislike. Partiality can also come from the hope of a returned favor. That is why Moses advises to listen to the small and great, the important people and the seemingly insignificant. Truth is not determined by emotions or favorability.
Lesson #2 – Do Not Be Intimidated
Being afraid of repercussions, whether political, financial or even the threat of a loss friendship has no place in giving advice or making judgments. If the boss asks our advice, or if a friend pleads with us to help, it is tempting to tell them what they want to hear out of fear of hurting their feelings or our position. Truth is not determined by the fear of truth.
Lesson #3 – Do Not Overreach
Being unwilling to say, “I don’t know,” or “I am not qualified to answer that question” does not help you or the person requesting assistance. Bad, unqualified advice not only hurts relationships, but hurts opportunities to help in the future. Sometimes we have to recognize our own limitations, and that is the best advice we can give. Doing so is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. Truth does not come from ignorance.
What do all three of these lessons have in common? Honesty. Be honest with the people you are listening to, and be honest with yourself. Honesty is needed to be a proactive listener.
Comments