We Speak A Different Language Talking In Defense

Abraham Lincoln once observed, “If you approach a man and mark him as one to be shunned and despised… he will retreat within himself, close all the avenues to his head and heart.” Once we make someone defensive, it closes our ability to have a productive conversation.

But it also works on us as well.

Often, when presented with something that hits a little too close to home, we get defensive. And in doing so, we miss out on the chance to grow and learn. If people often accuse us of not listening to them, it might just be that our defensiveness has us unable to hear them.

So have I become your enemy by telling you the truth? Galatians 4:16

Real honesty isn’t just in what you say but also in really listening to those who might be trying to help you. It might not be flattering, but it might be productive.

The key to better conversation might be taking the defensiveness out of your ears.

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