When we encourage the fainthearted...
When we help the weak...
When we visit a patient...
When we pray for the sick...
When we spread the gospel...
Are we on the right target when dealing with other?
The gospel must be ultimately shared, but taking the time to listen patiently and respond calmly is an essential part of the process. What does it take? Several things. Rare qualities. Like caring. Time. Unselfishness. Concentration. Holding the other person in high esteem. Sensitivity. Tolerance. Patience. Self-control. And - perhaps most of all - allowing room for silence while the other person is thinking and trying to get the words out. Wise is the listener who doesn't feel compelled to fill up the blank spaces with verbiage. Two ears. Two eyes. Only one mouth.
(from"Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life" by Charles Swindoll)