Being Present Starts with Listening

We get it—this time of year is packed. Finding space to breathe can be a challenge between the end of school, sporting events, graduations, and everything else on the calendar. But as we shared in a recent Fist Bump, making time for rest and staying connected to God isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Lately, we’ve been in the Book of Job, walking through the painful, faith-testing moments Job endured. This week, we were struck by something simple but profound: the power of listening.

“Listen carefully to what I say. Let my words ring in your ears.” — Job 13:17

Job, in his pain, pleads with God to hear him. Later, he pleads with his friend Zophar for comfort—not through advice or correction—but through listening.

“Listen carefully to my words. Let this be the consolation you give me.” — Job 21:2

Being a good listener is a lost art in a world full of noise. As men, we often default to fixing problems, giving advice, or moving quickly to action. But sometimes, the best thing we can do for someone going through a hard time is to listen—with our full attention.

And let’s be honest, we all have room to grow here.

Phones buzzing, TVs glowing, thoughts wandering—how often are we really present in a conversation? How many times have we heard, “Are you even listening to me?” Scripture reminds us:

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” — James 1:19

Stick that one on your bathroom mirror. It’s solid life advice. Being present—really present—is the foundation of meaningful connection. Eye contact. Undistracted attention. The kind of listening that says, “You matter to me.”

“Let the wise listen and add to their learning.” — Proverbs 1:5

Listening doesn’t just build relationships—it helps us grow. It helps us learn. It gives us insight into the needs of others before we open our mouths. And in today’s world, where disagreement too often leads to division, it allows us to find common ground rather than fight for the last word.

“Come, let us reason together.” — Isaiah 1:18

We all want to be better men. Better husbands. Better dads. Better friends. And better reflections of God’s love. God listens to us with full attention and deep care. What would happen if we did the same for the people in our lives?

“For you created my inmost being you knit me together in my mothers’ womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that well.  Psalm 139: 13-16

You were made on purpose, for a purpose. Let’s live like that’s true—and let’s make HIM smile in how we show up, especially in the quiet act of listening well.