Pro 18:13 | KingComments | STEP | The truth of this verse is important for everything we are told in a conversation or discussion. We must first listen to the whole story, let someone speak out, and only then respond. It leads to “folly and shame” if we answer when we have only heard half and fill in the rest ourselves. We must be “quick to hear, slow to speak” ( ). This is especially true in the relationship to God and listening to His Word. Poor listening means that we do not respect the person saying something. This lack of respect comes from being preoccupied with one’s own interests. One’s own thoughts are valued much higher than what the other person is saying. One’s own opinion is the only thing that matters. Those who engage in conversation with the other person in this way will do so to his own “folly and shame”.

‏ Proverbs 18:13

Listen Before You Give an Answer

The truth of this verse is important for everything we are told in a conversation or discussion. We must first listen to the whole story, let someone speak out, and only then respond. It leads to “folly and shame” if we answer when we have only heard half and fill in the rest ourselves. We must be “quick to hear, slow to speak” (Jam 1:19). This is especially true in the relationship to God and listening to His Word.

Poor listening means that we do not respect the person saying something. This lack of respect comes from being preoccupied with one’s own interests. One’s own thoughts are valued much higher than what the other person is saying. One’s own opinion is the only thing that matters. Those who engage in conversation with the other person in this way will do so to his own “folly and shame”.