God Unites: Marriage DevotionalSample

Listen Actively

Active listening is a crucial skill that involves fully focusing, understanding, and responding to others during conversations. It goes beyond merely hearing words; it requires being present and attentive, making the other person feel valued and understood. This practice involves maintaining eye contact, nodding in agreement, and providing feedback that shows genuine interest in what is being said. It's about recognizing and interpreting the speaker's emotions, thoughts, and desires, and responding thoughtfully rather than reactively. By being slow to speak, we allow ourselves the time to process information and avoid jumping to conclusions or letting our own emotions cloud our judgment. This patience helps in cultivating a peaceful and loving environment, as it demonstrates respect and empathy towards the speaker. Active listening not only improves communication but also strengthens relationships by fostering mutual trust and understanding.

Prayer: Lord, help us to listen to each other actively, understanding each other's emotions, thoughts, and desires. May our attentiveness signal that we value each other deeply. Grant us patience and wisdom to truly hear what the other is saying, and to respond with compassion and understanding. Teach us to be slow to speak and slow to anger, fostering a peaceful and loving environment in our relationship. Amen.

Question: How can we improve our listening skills to better understand each other's needs and feelings?