In One Ear … ?

by David Gibson

Listening is a significant theme of the book of Proverbs.

The book is designed to guide young men in making wise choices while avoiding foolish ones. To achieve this, one must really listen, learn, and live accordingly.

• Youth must listen to the teaching of godly parents (Proverbs 1:8; 4:1-6; 23:22).
• They must listen to wise counsel (Proverbs 12:15; 19:20).
• But they must also avoid listening to the wrong people (Proverbs 1:10-19; 7:6-23; 17:4).
• It’s wise to listen to needed correction and foolish not to (Proverbs 1:20-33; 15:32; 25:12).
• Listening to wise words produces positive outcomes (Proverbs 8:32-35; 21:28).
• Refusing to listen has significant consequences (Proverbs 5:1-14; 13:1; 19:27).
• God won’t hear the prayers of those who won’t listen to Him (Proverbs 28:9).

Although Proverbs was originally addressed to youth, its practical wisdom, including its emphasis on the right kind of listening, can greatly benefit people of all ages.

“He who has ears, let him hear” (Matthew 13:9 NASB).