Series: LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE—GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE
Sunday: “The Gift of Good and Godly Listening” (I Timothy 6:1-16)
Introduction: People all around us today are trying to “find their voice.” Attempts to confront issues of injustice and abuse lead to cries of anger and anguish. Far too often these cries of protest fall on “deaf ears”.
I believe God calls His people to a form of “ear responsibility.” He wants us to be good and godly listeners. This is one of the best gifts we can give to the people with whom we live, work, and play.
What does it mean to be good listeners from God’s perspective? Good and godly listeners demonstrate the following three characteristics in their lives.
I. Good and godly listeners are DYNAMIC listeners.
A. They put themselves in the right PLACE to hear.
B. They put themselves in the right POSITION to hear.
II. Good and godly listeners are DISCERNING listeners.
A. They listen to the right MESSENGERS.
B. They listen to the right MESSAGES.
C. They listen with the right MINDSET.
III. Good and godly listeners are DECISIVE listeners.
A. They listen for AUTHORITY.
B. They listen for AUTHENTICITY.
C. They listen for APPLICATION.
Conclusion: A Listening Prayer
Lord, I am willing
To receive what you give—
To lack what you withhold—
To relinquish what you take—
To suffer what you inflict—
To be what you require—
And, Lord, if others are to be
Your messengers to me.
I am willing to hear and to heed
What they have say.
Amen.