By John O’Malley
This year, I will be releasing a new book called Ministering to the Wounded. For my article this month, I am sharing a chapter from the book titled “The Art of Listening.”
After 40 years of ministry, I have found that listening is crucial.
In a world full of noise, listening is one of the rarest gifts we can offer. I struggle with completing someone’s thought in my mind so I can prepare my answer. For those who minister to the wounded, listening is not a passive act—it is a sacred ministry. It requires emotional restraint, spiritual sensitivity, and selfless love. Before Scripture can be applied wisely, ears must be opened humbly.
Listening is the first act of Christlike compassion. Jesus often asked questions—not because He lacked knowledge, but because He valued presence over performance. To listen is to enter someone’s suffering without trying to fix them. It reflects the heart of a God who “is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart” (Psalm 34:18).
1. The Value of Listening: Listening affirms dignity. It says, “Your story matters. You are not invisible.” It gives the wounded space to breathe and their burdens a place to land. Authentic listening slows down solutions and honors the process of trust.
2. The Patience Required: Listening is not efficient. It will interrupt your schedule. It may stretch your emotions. But love that listens is love that lingers. Proverbs 18:13 warns, “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” Quick answers are rarely wise ones.
• Discerning (Proverbs 20:5): “Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.”
Listening is not agreement, but understanding. It is not silence without discernment—it is restraint guided by the Spirit. When spoken in season, listening allows space for the Holy Spirit to work through the Scriptures.
To care well, start by listening well. Put down your notes. Resist the urge to fix. Hear the hurt. Hold the silence. Let their pain speak before you speak of healing. Listening may feel small, but it often opens the door to the most incredible work God wants to do.
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- Resist the urge to interrupt or mentally prepare a response while someone else is sharing.
- Reflect back what you heard to ensure understanding (“What I hear you saying is…“).
- Pray before offering advice. Without Him, we can do nothing.
- Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom to know when to speak—and when to stay present.
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“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” —Matthew 11:15
John O’Malley
If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.