To Listen or Speak?

“The word prophet,” said Jacob, holding his pace, “is created from two words before speaking.  A true prophet is someone who spends more time listening to God than speaking for God.”  (p. 69 Jacob’s Ladder)

How often have you heard someone say: “God gave us two ears, and only one mouth, because it is more important to listen than to speak.”

A simple little phrase that carries a hard truth.

I am thinking about people I have observed in a conversation and the person not speaking is just itching to put in their two-cents-worth.

I have found myself guilty of that need to speak from time to time.  How about you?

As I have grown older I try to stop myself from interjecting in a conversation instead of listening.  Partly because I realize that my offerings, into the conversation, are not all that astounding. 

And I find myself later thinking about why I have this rude mentality that thinks I might know ‘better’ or ‘more.’

It is mostly an arrogant attitude that to me is undesirable.  

So why do i do it?

God only knows.

However, it is something that I have desired to change in myself.

Because what I know for certain is that the best way to be a friend, and a pastor, is to listen first.  And then, if helpful, speak.