“and this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.”                                          1 John 5:14 (ESV)

Do you know what most experts list as the #1 skill needed for successful communication in the workplace and in life?              

Listening.

In every communication model there is a sender and a receiver. Two people or a whole group cannot talk all at once to communicate clearly – Someone must be the sender and another must be the receiver. Back when each home had a landline phone, you picked up the ‘receiver’ to hear who was calling. Makes sense, right?

But, do you ever feel like you are talking or sharing and no one is listening?

With someone standing in front of you or sitting alongside, do you feel like you aren’t being heard?

This happens to all of us – Especially with all of the distractions and interruptions that we allow in our lives 24/7 (like cell phones, instant messaging, email, Face Book). 

I know I am a much better sender than receiver. I am always trying to think one step ahead and sometimes I can’t turn off the background noise in my brain – the ‘to-do’ list, reminders, replaying the days’ events … it goes on and on.

Just ask my tolerant husband. Occasionally, when he is sharing something he will stop, look at me, and ask, “What did I just say?” I generally respond saying, “I hear you.” In actuality, I heard his words but I didn’t hear what he was saying. I didn’t receive the message.

I know this is an area of improvement for me. I admire those people who are such good listeners that they make you feel like you are the only person on the planet when you speak to them. I want to be that person.

We are reminded in today’s scripture that God is the ultimate listener. He hears our every request. He always receives our message. 

He hears us in the still of the morning. He hears us in the peak of the storm. He hears us in the chaos of our day. 

When we are faced with the difficult times, the heartbreaks, the grief, He hears our cries. When we celebrate the new job, the child who finally gets it together, the ray of sunshine peeking through the clouds, He hears us.  

When no one else is listening, He hears you.

When no one else will listen, He hears you.

What do you have to say today? Do you need to be heard? He is listening.

Dear Lord,

As I intentionally focus on becoming a better listener, help me to be mindful of the model of the best listener ever – You. As I strive to be heard, remind me that you always hear me.

Amen