The Leadership ChallengeSample

Challenge 50

JAMES, LISTENING TO OTHERS

READ: James 1:1–27

James was the relative of Jesus and a leader in the early church in Jerusalem. We don’t know a great deal about him, but we do have some of his thoughts recorded in the short and practical letter that bears his name. One of its often-quoted gems is found in our text. James challenges us in verse 19 to be “quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” Listening effectively to others is a critical skill in every relationship, not least in our calling as leaders. Fortunately, listening is a skill that can be learned. People who teach coaching skills often talk about the 80/20 rule. Coaches (and leaders) need to listen 80 percent of the time and talk 20 percent or less of the time. This seems similar to what James has in mind when he says to be slow to speak. Another way of putting it is that if you are talking then you aren’t listening. A subtle way of not listening is when we try to formulate our next response while the other person is still speaking. That isn’t listening either. James’s concern with listening is part of James’s larger reflections on the tongue, mentioned here and dealt with again later in this letter (chapter 3; and 4:1–12).

What does James say about the use of the tongue in this week’s passage? What can you do to improve your listening skills as a leader?

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About the author

The Rev. Dr. Kenneth W. Bush completed a 35-year military career in 2014, retiring at the rank of Colonel. He served in both Army Signal and Chaplain Corps. He currently serves as the Director of Training, Programs, and Research for the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces. He lives in Lanexa, Virginia, with his wife Kathy.