Are You Receptive?

Are You Receptive?

Is Selective Hearing a myth or a real thing? If you have children, have been married, or have had close relationships, you have probably experienced or been guilty of selective hearing. It can be a little frustrating to talk with someone whose face appears to be listening but whose ears are not following the words coming from your mouth. They may hear you talking but they are not listening.  

There have been a number of scientific studies that have attempted to find an answer. A 2008 study established that most people can focus on differing sounds heard out of one ear versus the other. Another study from 2012 showed participants could be hearing multiple people talking but selectively focus on the words being spoken by only one. The studies prove that selective hearing is both a real thing and able to be controlled by the interest of the hearer.

According to one article, "Selective Hearing involves many factors, including your goals, vision, and brain activity patterns. Your brain chooses what to listen to based on what you’re trying to do" (Healthline.com). The article offers some tips for becoming a better listener like paying attention, summarizing, asking questions, and "minding your biases."  

Just as selective hearing affects our earthly relationships it also affects our relationship with God. For this reason, Jesus said, "He who has ears to hear let him hear." Jesus even warns, "take care how you listen."

In Luke 8:1-15, we find one of the most well-known parables of Jesus, the parable of the four soils. Jesus shockingly warns that a person may think they have heard and know God's Word and yet it never takes root or produces fruit. In our sinful and natural state, we do not want to listen to God and we struggle to be spiritually receptive to what God is saying to us.