Listening is one of the most important skills a person can have.
Yet, in a world full of noise and distractions, truly listening to others has become rare.
People often hear words, but they do not always take the time to truly understand what is being said.
The Bible places great importance on listening—not just to God, but also to those around us.
Listening well can lead to wisdom, stronger relationships, and a deeper understanding of others.
But what does the Bible say about listening to others, and why is it so important?
By exploring Scripture, we can learn how listening impacts our faith, our relationships, and our ability to follow God’s will.
The Importance of Listening
The Bible frequently speaks about the value of listening.
Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.”
This verse highlights that wisdom comes from being willing to hear and accept instruction.
People who refuse to listen miss out on opportunities to grow in knowledge and understanding.
James 1:19 gives one of the most direct commands about listening: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing listening over speaking.
When people listen first, they can respond with wisdom instead of reacting in anger or misunderstanding.
Listening is not just about hearing words—it is about being fully present, paying attention, and seeking to understand before forming a response.
Listening to Others Leads to Wisdom
The Bible connects listening to gaining wisdom.
Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.”
A wise person understands that they do not have all the answers.
They recognize the value of hearing different perspectives and learning from others.
When people refuse to listen, they often make poor choices based on limited understanding.
Proverbs 18:13 warns, “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.”
Jumping to conclusions without listening fully can lead to mistakes, hurt feelings, and unnecessary conflict.
Taking the time to hear someone out before responding shows humility and wisdom.
Listening Strengthens Relationships
Good listening is essential for healthy relationships.
Whether it is in friendships, marriage, or family, listening builds trust and understanding.
Ephesians 4:29 reminds believers to use their words carefully, saying, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
This means that communication should be thoughtful and encouraging.
One of the best ways to show love and respect to someone is to listen to them.
When people feel heard, they feel valued.
Ignoring or interrupting others can cause frustration and distance in relationships.
Proverbs 17:27-28 highlights this truth: “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.”
Sometimes, the best way to be a good friend, spouse, or family member is to simply listen without immediately offering advice or opinions.
Listening to the Right Voices
While listening is important, the Bible also warns about being careful who you listen to.
Not all advice is good advice.
First Corinthians 15:33 states, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
Listening to the wrong voices can lead people down a dangerous path.
There are many opinions in the world, but not all of them align with God’s truth.
Proverbs 14:7 gives this warning: “Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
People must be discerning about who they allow to influence their thoughts and decisions.
Psalm 1:1 describes the blessing of avoiding ungodly counsel: “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.”
This does not mean ignoring everyone who disagrees with you, but it does mean being cautious about the sources of wisdom you trust.
Listening to Correct and Accept Rebuke
One of the hardest things to do is listen when someone points out a mistake.
No one likes to be corrected, but the Bible teaches that listening to rebuke leads to growth.
Proverbs 15:31-32 says, “Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.
Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.”
A wise person does not get defensive when corrected.
Instead, they listen and learn.
Ignoring correction can lead to repeated mistakes and missed opportunities for growth.
Ecclesiastes 7:5 states, “It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools.”
Correction may not always be easy to hear, but it is often necessary for spiritual and personal growth.
Jesus as the Perfect Example of Listening
Jesus was the Son of God, yet He still took time to listen to others.
Throughout His ministry, He asked questions, engaged in conversations, and responded with love and wisdom.
One example is found in Mark 10:46-52, when a blind man named Bartimaeus cried out to Jesus for healing.
Even though many people told the man to be quiet, Jesus stopped and listened.
Mark 10:51 says, “‘What do you want me to do for you?’ Jesus asked him.”
Jesus knew the man was blind, yet He still listened to his request before acting.
This shows that listening is not just about gathering information—it is about showing care and compassion.
Another example is found in John 4, when Jesus spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well.
Instead of ignoring her or judging her, He listened to her story and offered her living water.
His willingness to listen led to her transformation and faith in Him.
If Jesus, the Son of God, took time to listen to people, how much more should we?
Listening to God Through His Word
While it is important to listen to others, the most important voice to listen to is God’s.
The Bible is filled with God’s wisdom, guidance, and truth, but many people do not take the time to truly listen to it.
James 1:22 warns, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.
Do what it says.”
Listening to God is not just about hearing Scripture—it is about applying it to daily life.
Isaiah 30:21 gives this promise: “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’”
God speaks through His Word, through prayer, and through wise counsel.
But if people are too busy talking, worrying, or being distracted, they may miss His voice.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
True listening requires stillness, patience, and a heart that is open to God’s guidance.
Final Thoughts
The Bible teaches that listening is a skill that brings wisdom, strengthens relationships, and helps people grow in faith.
Listening to others shows love, humility, and respect, while refusing to listen leads to mistakes, misunderstandings, and division.
Godly listening is not just about hearing words—it is about seeking understanding, responding with wisdom, and being open to correction.
At the same time, believers must be careful about who they listen to, making sure they seek advice that aligns with God’s truth.
Most importantly, listening to God is the key to living a life of faith and obedience.
By taking time to listen to His Word, His Spirit, and His guidance, people can walk in His wisdom and experience the blessings of a life centered on truth.
The next time someone speaks, take a moment to pause, listen, and truly hear what they are saying.
In doing so, you will not only gain knowledge and wisdom, but you will also reflect the heart of Christ.