Happy Thursday Saints.
Psalm 69:20 “I LOOKED FOR SYMPATHY, BUT THERE WAS NONE, FOR COMFORTERS BUT I FOUND NONE.”
Yesterday, we saw how a lack of empathy is one of the main contributing factors to marriage, family, church and employment breakdowns.
Having done a lot of counselling throughout the years, I’ve heard spouses say “my husband/my wife doesn’t listen.”
Young ones say “my parents don’t understand me.”
Family members say that they’ll “never forgive” their relatives – even when they haven’t taken the time to hear the other side of the story.
And Employees talk about how the management is out of touch with what’s really going on in their organisation.
If we are going to understand how others are feeling and empathise with what they’re going through, we have to LISTEN… really LISTEN!
It doesn’t matter how great your advice or guidance is; if the other person doesn’t feel heard – they won’t be open to what you have to say.
Many well-meaning parents have had their sound advice dismissed because their children feel ignored and they feel like their opinions are irrelevant.
When was the last time you put yourself in someone else’s shoes in an effort to understand what they were going through? When we judge others too quickly, we won’t be able to hear what they have to say and therefore, we won’t be able to see things from their perspective.
When those around you feel heard and understood, your connection with them will be deeper and more meaningful. Your empathy will strengthen the relationship and open their hearts to your support and help.
Have a wonderful day. God bless and lots’a love,
Warren
