Devotion 16 — Who Listens Well? |
The Practice of Humble Leadership
Scripture“Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord is one.”— Deuteronomy 6:4
“Give your servant a listening heart to govern your people.”— 1 Kings 3:9
The Sh’ma begins with a command: Hear.Before leadership is about action, it is about attention. Before a leader speaks, decides, or directs, they must first learn how to listen.
This is not incidental. It is foundational.
When Solomon first became king, he asked God for something remarkable: a listening heart.
At the beginning of his reign, Solomon stood at a moment of enormous possibility. He could have asked for power to secure his rule, for wealth to strengthen his kingdom, or for victory over his enemies. These would have been expected requests for a new king.
But Solomon chose differently.
He asked for the ability to listen well.
This request reveals a deep understanding of leadership. Solomon recognized that authority without understanding is dangerous. Power without discernment can lead to injustice. A leader who cannot listen cannot lead wisely, no matter how strong or intelligent they may be.
A listening leader seeks understanding before judgment. Such........