Listening with Love

Last week during our weekly Family Ministry Moment, we talked about what it means to be rooted in God—how vital it is for our families to intentionally grow closer to the Lord and to develop deep, lasting roots in our relationship with Him.

This week, as we continue exploring practical ways to help our families grow spiritually, we’re focusing on Listening with Love.

If I’m being honest, in the Cope household, listening doesn’t always come naturally. There’s usually a lot happening at once, and distractions are everywhere. Too often, I let my phone or other tasks pull my attention away. Before I know it, I’ve responded to my children without really listening to them. And they know it. That lack of presence can lead to hurt feelings—and even a loss of respect—because at the heart of it, they simply want to be heard. They feel loved when heard. 

The same is true in my marriage. Alissa needs to know that I’m truly listening to her. That’s one of the ways she feels deeply loved. Listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about offering our full attention and our heart.

Scripture reminds us of this truth in James 1:19:

“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”

So let me encourage you to take an honest look at your time with your family this week.
How well do you listen to one another?
Is being “quick to listen” one of your strengths—or an area that needs growth?
Have you been listening with love?

And finally, who in your family is God inviting you to listen to more intentionally this week?