Philippians 2:3–4 (NKJV) — 3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
A few decades ago I read Stephen Covey’s book, “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” He listed an important habit: “Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood.”
Humility…” lowliness of mind”, the idea of holding others in high esteem. Not all members of the church are mature enough in their faith to be humble. Someone once said to me, “Gary, it is not all about you.” I heard those words. I realized it really isn’t all about me. It is all about Jesus.
The person we are talking to is an important person. From the smallest child to the oldest adult, one person is important and no matter how insignificant their words are to us, they are important to that person. I learned in children’s camp never to talk down to a child. I would either get down to their level or lift them up to my level and make eye-to-eye contact.
If we listen to others, we learn their heart. What is it they want or need? Some seek attention and “vain glory”. or truly seek the best for others and God’s church. Sometimes the most profound words are the meekest words.
We need to learn to listen. How many times do we not hear because we are thinking about what we are going to say? We need to learn to communicate with others.
We are to have the “Mind of Christ.”
James 1:19, “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
Proverbs 12:15, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise.”
Proverbs 18:2, “A fool has no delight in understanding, But in expressing his own heart.”
Proverbs 18:13, “He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him.”