Seek to understand before seeking to be understood

I have been discussions with individuals in the past where they do not listen. They speak first and never listen. They have no interest in coming to an understanding by listening to your presentation. It is obviously wise to first seek to understand before seeking to be understood. Our mouths (and hearts) get in the way of new understanding. This is the biggest mistake any leader can make. His or her junior and customer facing staff are collecting information everyday. If we do not listen to them and seek to understand, we and the organization will fail.

Proverbs 18:2

Fools find no pleasure in understanding

but delight in airing their own opinions.

Proverbs 18 almost sounds like an old wise man sitting by a veranda giving all kinds of advice to his grandson. Don't get me wrong. I mean this in a good way. Yes, all granddads should do this. In fact, fathers especially should do this. Cannot wait.

Verse 12 says "Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor." This wisdom is probably needed to understand why verse 2 is true. Usually people do not associate humility with honor, but this is God's way of saying my ways are contrary to the natural inclinations of man.

Verse 22 says "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." Again I am reminded of the huge favor God has given me by finding me Lee Yen. A wonderful wife with great character and Godly focus. She has helped me greatly in my walk with the Lord. Constantly inspiring and challenging me, and prepared to make sacrifices. Thank you Lord!

As a father, I need to emulate the writer of Proverbs by "sitting at the veranda" and having these conversations with my 4 wonderful children. Father, help me stay reaching out to Sharmaine, Sherman, Shawn and Shane.

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