Mission Briefing
The Superpower of Listening
Here is a surprising secret: some of the wisest people in history got that way not by being the smartest in the room, but by being the best listeners. Proverbs says that accepting good advice is one of the most important things you can do for your future! This mission explores Proverbs 19:20.
What Does Proverbs 19:20 Mean?
This proverb is short but packed with power. Solomon is reminding us that no one is born wise – wisdom is built over time by paying attention to people who know more than we do. “Accepting instruction” means being humble enough to say “I do not know everything” and being willing to learn from others. Every coach, teacher, parent, or mentor God puts in your life is an opportunity to grow wiser for your future.
Hero Challenge
This week, find one moment when an adult gives you advice or instruction – even something small – and instead of tuning out or arguing, really listen. Repeat back what they said in your own words to show you understood. Then try to follow through on their advice. That single act of humble listening is building your future wisdom right now.
Did You Know?
Solomon wrote much of Proverbs as letters to his own children, wanting them to learn from his mistakes and his victories. He had experienced firsthand what happened when people listened to bad advice versus good advice. Even the wisest king who ever lived understood that wisdom is passed down through relationships – from person to person, one generation to the next.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
Who is someone in your life who gives you really good advice? What is the best piece of advice they ever gave you?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why do you think it can sometimes feel hard to accept advice or correction from others? What makes it easier?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
Proverbs connects listening to advice now with gaining wisdom in the future. How do you think the choices you make about learning and listening today will shape who you become in five or ten years?
♥ Mission Prayer
God, give me a humble heart that loves to learn. Help me listen well to the wise people You have placed in my life and not let pride get in the way. Build wisdom in me now so I am ready for whatever comes next. Amen.
