“Now therefore, know and consider what you should do, for evil is plotted against our master and against all his household; and he is such a worthless man that no one can speak to him.”
1 Samuel 25:17
What does a fool look like? How does one go about getting that reputation? Do you know someone who is considered unreachable and unteachable like Nabal was to his staff?
People stop talking when leaders stop listening. In the story of David, Nabal, and Nabal’s wife, Abigail, Nabal is referred to as a “worthless man” by both his staff and Abigail. Why was Nabal regarded as a fool and a worthless man? Because he had a reputation for not listening to anyone, even when people were trying to warn him that his arrogant behavior was going to cost him. Nabal was unteachable and unreachable. His wife Abigail, on the other hand, was considered wise because she could learn and discern what was happening in an environment and in the moment and then adapt. How did she do this? By listening to what others had to say. Leaders listen with their eyes, ears, and heart.
My wife will bring to my attention my behavior if I talk to her with the wrong words or a harsh tone. I have learned over the years that the wounds of a friend are better than the kisses of an enemy (Proverbs 27:6). When she is correcting me (respectfully), that is my cue to listen. I want to be teachable and reachable so when these conversations pop up, I regard them as my cue to sit up and listen up. The next time you sense someone is getting frustrated with you, consider going into “listening and learning” mode. You can always disagree at a later date. However, if you develop the habit of defending yourself and not discerning the moment, you, too, could one day be remembered as unteachable and unreachable like Nabal.
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- What reputation do you have among those you are closest to?
- Why are those in charge sometimes unreachable?
- How do you respond when someone is trying to correct you?
Leaders listen to learn, then adapt and in so doing, earn the respect of those around them.
