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October 20, 2024

Simple Math

Sermon Notes

Have you ever felt judged by another person?

1 Samuel 16:7 NIV

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

In all difficult conversations, seek to understand before you are understood.

Proverbs 4:7 NIV

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

Proverbs 18:1-2 NIV

An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends 

and against all sound judgment starts quarrels. 

Fools find no pleasure in understanding 

but delight in airing their own opinions.

How do I listen before I speak?

James 1:19 NIV

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,

God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth; use them proportionately.

James 1:20 NIV

because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.

Sometimes, it helps for me to remember this person is not my enemy.

Proverbs 14:29 NIV

Whoever is patient has great understanding, 

but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.

You will know you’ve heard them when:

  1. They are done speaking (don’t interrupt).
  2. You think you understand what they are saying.
  3. You think you understand why they are saying it (Try seeing it from their perspective).
  4. You can state it back to them and have summarized it enough that they have peace with how you said it (steel man vs straw man).
  5. If you find you misunderstood … go back to step 1 and listen some more.

Practice the art of not having the last word.

“I’m practicing the discipline of not having to have the last word.” – Dallas Willard

Proverbs 19:11 NIV

A person’s wisdom yields patience; 

it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.


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