This Proverb says, “He who gives an answer before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.” This Proverb is saying that we should not speak or offer an opinion until we have heard all of the facts in a matter. If we are too hasty with our answer, it is likely that we will speak in error and regret what we have said.
The Bible says that we should be ‘slow to speak but quick to listen.’ The words we speak to others have an impact. They can have a good or a bad impact. Therefore, they should be carefully measured.
I personally have been guilty of speaking too hastily. When another person is speaking to me I am sometimes more concerned with offering my answer or opinion than truly listening. In some cases I have regretted my answer.
The Bible says that we are to love our neighbor as ourself. This means that we should be concerned with the welfare of others in our life. We should seek for their good and encourage them. Truly listening to what others have to say to us is part of that love and concern.
If we listen carefully and avoid speaking until we have heard, then our response will more likely be good and helpful. Our words will be valued. More importantly, our words will find favor with God.
