Listening

Listening, guided by love, is one of the greatest gifts we can offer to others as we minister to them.

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See “Five Things Good Listeners Do,” Ensign, June 2018, 6–9.

Sincere listening is a simple act of service that helps others feel valued and appreciated, and it helps the listener understand their needs. The quality of attention we offer others can determine the quality of our relationships with them. Our undivided attention is one of the greatest compliments we can offer.

Sister Jean B. Bingham, Relief Society General President, has said: “Sometimes we think we have to do something grand and heroic to ‘count’ as serving our neighbors. Yet simple acts of service can have profound effects on others—as well as on ourselves. What did the Savior do? … He … smiled at, talked with, walked with, listened to, made time for, encouraged, taught, fed, and forgave. He served family and friends, neighbors and strangers alike, and He invited acquaintances and loved ones to enjoy the rich blessings of His gospel.”1

The Savior not only taught; He thoughtfully listened, which enabled Him to answer questions and attend to the needs of others. The stories of the woman at the well (see John 4:5–30), the woman taken in adultery (see John 8:2–11), and the disciples on the road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:13–35) all show Jesus’s skill as a listener. Listening, guided by love, is one of the greatest gifts we can offer to others as we minister like the Savior.

Notes

  1. Jean B. Bingham, “Ministering as the Savior Does,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 104.

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