Listen

Editor’s Note: Today’s reading mentions the subject of abortion. Sarah and I had been best friends since third grade. She was an amazing ballerina and began ballet years before we met. I think the only time she went to church was when she went with me. We talked much about her need to have a relationship with Christ, but it never went past talking. Then, one day, Sarah came to me and was talking in disjointed sentences. “Jim and I…Mom says she knows someone. Mom will fix it. I have my ballet to think about. Someday I am going to New York. It doesn’t matter forget…I said anything.” We were fourteen, and I did not listen or comprehend what she was trying to tell me. It wasn’t until two years later that I understood. She’d had an abortion. While we still remain friends, our relationship has changed. We no longer enjoy the closeness we had before. I pray for Sarah every week; my heart yearns for her to know Jesus and His love for her. I often wonder, How would the situation have been different if I had truly listened to Sarah? How could I have shown Jesus’ love and truth through my words and actions? We all need Jesus, and, as Christians, living a life of love and kindness gives us opportunities to share the hope of Jesus in the darkest of situations. When a friend is struggling, listen—truly listen—to what they have to say. James 1:19 says to be “slow to speak.” He doesn’t say “don’t speak.” With words couched in God’s love, tell them of His grace and mercy. Because Jesus is the only One who can save us from the sin, brokenness, and death we all face. • Bonnie Haveman • No matter what situation you are facing, in Christ, you are never alone (Matthew 28:20). If you or a friend is facing a tough situation, who is a trusted adult you can talk with about it? • How can you listen to and speak with friends facing tough situations? How will the Holy Spirit help you speak the truth about Jesus into the situation (Luke 12:12)? • Abortion leaves a deep wound that only Jesus can heal. Jesus is the Ultimate Healer. If you are seeking healing after an abortion, find a trusted Christian friend who will listen. If you need someone to talk to, you can set up an appointment for a one time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service: In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate. Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 (NLT)

Read Verses:

2 Timothy 2:24-26; James 1:19; 1 Peter 3:15-16