The Bible teaches that listening carefully and speaking wisely are marks of wisdom and maturity.
It warns against the dangers of talking excessively and encourages us to value understanding and thoughtful speech over mere verbosity.
One of the harshest and most degrading accusations that can be made against someone is not that they are a liar or a thief, but, that they are a fool.
When such an accusation is made, it hits deep in the soul.
The Bible makes it very clear that the fruit of inward foolishness is manifested by constant and excessive talking.
Not only does excessive and incessant talking reveal foolishness, but it is rude and deters others from wanting a relationship and communication with such a person.
In fact, good, healthy, and wholesome communication is impossible with an incessant talker.
Here’s what the Bible says about incessant and excessive talking.
Proverbs 18:13: “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.”
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 12:15: “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.”
Proverbs 10:19: “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
Ecclesiastes 5:2: “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”
Proverbs 17:27-28: “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.”
Matthew 12:36-37: “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
I find that one of the key takeaways from good listening is that you become smarter. Intelligence and wisdom share a close relationship.
Most people who can’t listen well to others fear that they are going to be duped.
They are comfortable in their biases, opinions, and prejudices.
However, the reality is they are fragile and can fall apart easily if they are challenged.
The key is to learn to become a good listener. Good listeners are liked, heard when they do speak, respected, honored, and their presence is desired.
People want to be around you if you are a good listener.
Think about how you feel when someone gives you their full attention by making eye contact with you and attempts to hear and understand you and what you are saying. It feels good, right?
Be the kind of person who does this for others and you will be rewarded by God, by others, and merely by your willingness to listen.
Michael Murphy is a retired minister and Sherman, Texas native who lives in Zhengzhou, China where he teaches English.