Part of the course that I teach deals with workplace skills, specifically what we call the “soft” skills. The soft skills are the intangibles, things like interpersonal skills, active listening, willingness to accommodate, articulate communication, consideration of others, strong work ethic, integrity, etc. Today we focused on active listening, and some good discussions have resulted. Several students made the observation that many in our culture are unwilling to even listen to someone with whom they disagree, and that many will become very emotional. We discussed why that might be, what the outcome is when people claim to want to persuade someone, but instead just overreact beyond all imagination. We each have to ask ourselves the same question. What are we trying to accomplish?
If we really want to change minds and save souls, then our interactions must be consistent with that hope (Colossians 4:6). I can’t go from zero to sixty just because someone disagrees with me. That’s what the world does. That’s not who we are. If we are rejected, then we are rejected. We move on. But, even if the other participant(s) in the conversation become(s) hostile or aggressive, our responses will be crucial.
If we act and speak the way they speak, then we will get the result they get, polarization, and escalation of animosity. But, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 reads: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ…” If the way we interact with people is inconsistent with our stated purpose, then we have to change. The Lord wants to grow you; are you willing to let Him?