Listen Intently

James 1:19

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

Proverbs 19:20

“Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.”

Everyone should be quick to listen and slow to speak. This is especially true when meeting your boyfriend or girlfriend’s parents for the first time. Listening intently means paying attention, not just to words but to body language and gestures, as they can tell you a lot about the people you are meeting. Not interrupting or jumping into conversations with answers will help show you are respectful of others' opinions and attentive to their questions.

Additionally, responding thoughtfully when asked questions speaks volumes about your values and shows that you mean what you say. Taking the time to listen intently during this important encounter with your partner’s parents will make them feel respected, appreciated, and heard–all of which is sure to pay off in the long run!

Your partner’s parents might also use this encounter to share some advice and words of wisdom about life and love. Even if you don’t agree, show respect by taking it to heart. Remember, honor is about putting someone else above yourself–making them feel comfortable, respected, and appreciated first and foremost. A simple “Thank you so much for sharing that with me.” can go a long way in making them feel heard.

Being quick to listen also requires being present. A simple gesture like keeping your phone turned off and out of sight shows you’re taking the meeting seriously. Make sure to keep your body language open and welcoming–make eye contact when your partner’s parents are talking to you, smile, and nod. It’s the little things that can make a big difference.

A Prayer for Attentiveness

God,

Please help me be quick to listen and slow to speak when I meet my partner’s parents. When my mind starts to wander or get distracted, I pray the Holy Spirit would redirect my thoughts back to the present situation. I also ask for ears to hear any advice that’s given and an open heart to receive what you want me to hear. Above all, I ask that you would guide the conversations and provide a comfortable environment for us to learn about and from each other.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.