Gratitude is valued in our culture as a practice that brings positivity into our lives. There is research supporting its many benefits. At Thanksgiving, it is something Americans can all agree is meaningful! But in an increasingly secular culture, being thankful is often stripped down to be an attitude or practice of noticing the good.
Listening and asking questions are terrific ways to show love in everyday life! Listening is such a gift, but it is often hard to give others. It goes against our self-contentedness and desire to get things done. Listening requires intentionality and practice; it takes a little effort to mentally and relationally connect with another person! For more ideas on asking questions, take a peek at last week’s post .
Here are five ideas that will help you grow the skill of listening:
Each time I saw this friend, she would ask a question about something I had mentioned the last time we talked. The question might be about something I was planning to do or something that was on my heart. This told me she had really been listening to me. Her question made me feel like I was loved and paid attention to! She inspired me to try to ask questions more with others I knew.
Asking questions is a skill for loving well! It accomplishes at least four things:
There are many things that vie for our attention during the Christmas season! Each year, we like to create space for our family to remember who we are really celebrating. This year, we’re going to use these devotions I wrote a few years ago. I pray they encourage your hearts to draw near to Jesus this season!
