:Listen, Learn and Show Compassion

 Listen Attentively

From our limited viewpoint, we could judge Jonah as unreliable, even disloyal.  He received a direct command from Jehovah in Nineveh. But instead of obeying, Jonah boarded a ship traveling in the opposite direction, "away from Jehovah."  (Jonah 1:1-3)  Would  you have given Jonah another chance to handle the assignment?  Possibly not.  (Yes, I would) Yet, Jehovah saw reasons to do so. - JONAH 3:1, 2. 

Jonah revealed the type of person he was  in his prayer.  (Read  Jonah 2:1, 2, 9)  That prayer-doubtless one of man Jonah offered-helps us to see him as far as more than a man who ran away from an assignment.  His words show that he was humble, thankful, and determined to obey Jehovah.  No wonder Jehovah looked beyond Jonah's actions, responded to his prayer, and continued to use him as a prophet! 

To listen attentively to others,., we need to be humble and patient. It is worth the effort for at least three reasons.  First, we will be less likely to jump to wrong conclusions about people.  Second, we can discern feelings and motives in or brother/sister, and that will help us to be more empathetic. And third, we may help the person to learn something  about himself.  Sometimes we do not really understand even our emotions, until we express those emotions in words.  (Proverbs 10:5)  An elder in Asia admits:  "I remember making the mistake of speaking before listening. I told a sister that she needed to improve the quality of her comments at the meeting. Later I learned that she has difficulty reading and that it takes a lot of effort for her to give comments."  How important it is that each elder "hears the facts" before giving counsel!  - PROVERBS 18:13.

Some of our brothers and sisters find it difficult to talk about their feelings because of their background, culture, or personality.  How can we make it easier for them to open their hearts to us?  Remember the way Jehovah dealt with Elijah when he fled from Jezebel.  It took many days before Elijah expressed himself completely to his heavenly Father. Jehovah listened attentively. He then encouraged Elijah and gave him constructive work to do.  (1 Kings 19:1-18)  It  may take time for our brothers and sisters to feel comfortable speaking to us, but only when they do will we be abe to dixern their true feelings.  If we imitate Jehovah by being patient, we can earn their confidence.  Then, when they are ready to share their feelings, we should listen attentively. 

Next time: Listen, Learn, and Show Compassion - GET TO KNOW YOUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS

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