We've all been involved in those conversations. You know, you're listening to the other person, but really can't wait until he stops talking, so that you can say something.
While we generally will get frustrated with the other person, our behavior is what we should really be questioning.
"A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his own opinion" (Proverbs 18:2).
According to that verse, the previous conversation is an example of two fools together in one room.
They're not really conversing. Both are just spouting their opinions.
Pay attention to the conversations that you have today.
Are they really conversations, or just two fools in a room?
What can we do to change?
It's not rocket science, but we need to do it.
Listen and ask questions. Make sure that you are understanding what the other one is saying by asking questions. "Did you say...?" "Did I understand...?" "What happened then...?"
Be patient. Remember that the other person is just as much a fool as you are.
What not to do:
Don't interrupt. So many conversations are just a "one-upmanship" competition. "My story is better and you need to hear it." The only thing that we listen for is for an opportunity to tell our story or voice our opinion.
What did that verse call those people who do that?
Don't attempt to solve every problem. Not all problems can be solved in a two-minute conversation.
Don't make a judgment before hearing the whole story. Stop and listen. Listen to both sides.
Don't argue and criticize. You're just proving that you think your opinion is needs to be heard.
The way to understanding is through active listening. That may require us to keep our mouths shut more!
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