The Power of Presenceნიმუში

LISTENING

Once we notice God’s presence within us and around us, we can reflect it on those around us, especially through our listening.

Jesus stopped to have conversations with those he encountered, even when they did not know who he was. In John 4, Jesus stops to talk with the Samaritan woman, despite the religious disputes between Jews and Samaritans. This intentional conversation led to the woman becoming the first Evangelist in the Gospel of John, spreading the news of Jesus to others.

We are called to listen intentionally to others and be quick to empathy. Just one conscious conversation with someone can change their entire day.

When talking with a friend, ask questions! Asking great questions is one of the best ways to make someone feel heard and known, and it strengthens connections. Here are some simple questions that show you care:

-What is something good that happened to you today?

-How did that affect you?

-What led you to make that choice?

The intentions of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out. (Proverbs 20:5, BSB)

Being present in our conversations allows us to get to know others better and opens the door for God-sized influence to occur. Just as Jesus transformed the Samaritan woman’s perspective, we too can transform or be transformed by intentional conversations led by listening.

Ask Yourself:

-Do I listen more than I speak in my conversations with others?

-What strategy can I use to ask more questions? Asking instead of assuming?

Pause to Pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for blessing me with the people in my life. Open my ears and mind to listening intentionally and building deeper connections. Help me to bring Your light and love into all my conversations…

Take a Next Step: Find a way to ask more questions in your everyday conversations. Consider these tips:

-Ask instead of assuming the answer to a question

-Ask more open-ended questions

-Embrace the silence and give yourself time to ask meaningful questions

Find more resources at www.whoisgrace.com/READ.