He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him. — Proverbs 18:13 KJV
To answer before listening—that is folly and shame. — Proverbs 18:13 NIV
The verse highlights the folly and shame that come from hasty judgments or responses. How often have misunderstandings arisen because someone didn’t take the time to fully listen? How many relationships have been strained or broken because of words spoken in haste without true understanding? This proverb warns us of the consequences of such actions and encourages us to adopt a more thoughtful and considerate approach.
This challenges us to examine our own communication habits. Are we truly listening to others, or are we just waiting for our turn to speak? Do we seek to understand before making ourselves understood? We must therefore cultivate a spirit of patience and humility, recognizing that wisdom is often found in silence and understanding, not in the multitude of words.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, guide me in my daily interactions, that I may avoid the folly and shame of speaking before listening. Help me to see the value in every word spoken to me, recognizing Your voice in the voices of those around me. In this way, I pray that my life be a testimony to the transformative power of listening—a listening that leads to understanding, compassion, and deeper connections with those You have placed in my life.
In the name of Jesus, who listened to the lowly and the lost, I pray, Amen.
