Many of us think we are better listeners than we really are.    But there is a reason the Bible tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19). Listening is powerful and important. And the reality of human relationships is that being a GOOD listener does take some intentional effort.   It’s more than just hearing the words someone is saying. It’s more than just finishing a conversation. And if we are in ministry, trying to care for others and show them the love of Jesus, it is especially important that we truly are quick to listen… and that we listen well.    So, join me today for a counselor’s perspective on 3 keys to being a good listener. It’s not complicated, but it might take some effort and some practice. All for God’s glory!   - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -    ABOUT YOUR HOST    This podcast is offered as a ministry from iHope Christian Care and Counseling, Inc. We are a nonprofit counseling center in the Pee Dee area of South Carolina. Our primary host is our Director: Jessica Hayes, LPC, LMFT, LPCS-C. You can learn more about The iHope Center at www.ihopeflorence.com.   We hope you will subscribe to our channel and share about the podcast with the other pastors and leaders in your life. There is a video, audio, and blog version of this podcast: LISTEN on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any common podcast app WATCH on the iHope YouTube channel READ on the iHope blog     - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -   REFERRALS AND DONATIONS   Our counselors are licensed in the state of South Carolina. If you are local to our state, we hope you will consider The iHope Center as a referral source for professional counseling or life coaching. We offer a 10% discount on services to full-time pastors. Virtual services are available as well.   The iHope Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and we are registered in the state of South Carolina as a charitable organization. If you are local to our state, we welcome your donations and gifts to support our counseling ministry. Donations allow us to keep clients' fees at 50% below the local average cost for services.     Find out more at www.ihopeflorence.com.    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -    DISCLAIMER   This podcast, as well as other resources offered by The iHope Center, should be taken as informational and educational content only. Utilizing our resources does not create a professional relationship. This podcast is not therapy. Always use your own judgment in making decisions and in making recommendations for others.    In the case of a medical or mental health emergency for yourself or someone else, please contact your local emergency department. In the USA, you can call “988” which is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -    Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Counseling Tips For Pastors And Ministry Leaders!   What’s next? ✓ Subscribe and follow the show ✓ Leave a written review and let us know what topics we should cover ✓ Click on the 3 dots above to copy the link for this episode and share with a friend or colleague   If you’re local to South Carolina, we hope you will consider us for referrals and donations to support this ministry.    Learn more about iHope Christian Care and Counseling at www.ihopeflorence.com.