Shut Out the Noise

Previously we acknowledged the importance of discernment when listening to what others say. It is just as important to apply discernment in our responses to what they are saying, especially if their words or tone are argumentative and aggressive. This is when we need to shut out the noise of their voices and their words. We need not to listen to what they are saying. This is not a directive to be rude, there is a difference. It is a directive of wisdom to diffuse a situation, and diffuse the response of your heart. Guard it, and guard it well.

As much as it is true that we need to correct error when we hear it we know that at times doing so may not be wise. Correction in certain circumstances can bring greater negativity, hostility and a possible growing platform for the one speaking. They may manipulate our words causing many to misunderstand our intent, and the reality of what we’re trying to say.

When you know someone to have an argumentative trait or that they are enjoying the attention your questions bring to them allowing them a greater audience, and more attentive listening by others. Stop talking. It is essential to guard not only your own mindset, but others too. Who else is listening, and what will they understand of the exchange of thoughts and philosophies? What impression will it make on their heart?

Don’t allow words of attack either directly or of your faith to keep you listening. Shut out words of accusation made to your faith – to Truth. Ultimately they are an attack on the Lord, and not you. The Lord can and will deal what is being said and done in His time.

When you can’t walk away, switch off your hearing. Discipline your thoughts to focus on something else. Don’t allow their words to tempt you, to lure you to a defensive statement. You will not be serving any purpose in doing so other than feeding their agenda. When drawn into their discourse, through listening to what they say you are setting yourself up for an agitated heart, one that may be tempted to respond. Don’t. Shut out their words and the influence they are having on your thoughts. Rest in the quiet knowledge of Jesus – He is your Lord! Think, and meditate on this.

• Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it (Luke 11:28).

• How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge (Proverbs 1:22).

• Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night(Psalm 1:1-2).

• Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you. Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil (Proverbs 4:23-27).

• Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain (Psalm 119:33-36).

#words #wisdom #listening