V.E. Howard familiarized the question in his radio broadcast and public preaching. Three simple words, but the importance is astounding. Are you listening?

Jesus used a similar phrase in his ministry, “he who has ears to hear, let him hear.” In other words, are you listening?”

One of the most important qualities of a leader in effective communication is the ability to listen. Instead of listening, we tend to be thinking about our response. We are waiting for someone to draw breath so we can jump in and speak.

A favorite account of mine from the Old Testament is Genesis 23. Abraham wants to buy a piece of land as a gravesite for his wife, Sarah. Ephron speaks as if he wants to give the land to Abraham, but Abraham insists on buying it. Take a moment to read verses 15-16. It is easy to overlook what Ephron says. However, Abraham did not. The text says, “and Abraham listened to him.”

What a powerful lesson. We must learn to listen. We should listen with our ears, eyes, and hearts.

People are hurting and need leadership. Are we listening?