Learning to Listen #11

In our series on Learning to Listen, we've made a couple of stops in the book of Proverbs, and we will  be there a couple of times more, as it has much to say on the subject. Today we consider Proverbs 10:

17 Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life,
    but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.

In other words, learning to listen affects not only my life, my path, but all those who depend upon me for leadership. Initially you may think: "Phew! I'm glad I'm no leader." But you are. Everything, especially any adult has someone who is watching them, listening to them, learning something from them, even if that person is not in a formal position of leadership. This whole chapter says a lot about the impact one person can have with his or her life.  Consider verse 8: The wise of heart will receive commandments,     but a babbling fool will come to ruin. And if they come to ruin, they usually take someone else down too. Consider as well verse 19: When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Letting you tongue run wild is letting sin run wild, but learning to shut up and listen is the wise thing to do. And finally, verse 21:The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense. Our words, our actions, our learning to listen does not just affect ourselves; it brings either blessing or ruin to others as well.  There is no sin that does not hurt someone else.