No one is as deaf as the man who will not listen.”
Hearing is a passive physiological process, whereas listening requires action and effort. Hearing can occur without actually understanding what a person is saying, whereas listening requires you to take an interest and understand the meaning of what a person is telling you.
“You have seen many things, but you pay no attention; your ears are open, but you do not listen.” Isaiah 42:20 (NIV)
“Learn to bite your tongue and listen more.”
Active listening is a communication method that requires each person in a relationship to fully focus on, understand, and repeat back what the other partner is saying. Listening strengthens relationships and demonstrates attentiveness, caring, and respect. Listening is more than just hearing, however. To truly listen, you must give your undivided attention and put your own agenda and needs aside. Prof. Frederick Kasese
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” James 1:19
