Issue 7 – The Second Step to a Stronger Memory

James 1:19
 “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

Last week we focused on attention as the first step in memory. If you don’t pay attention to something, you won’t remember it. But attention alone isn’t enough.

Step Two: Comprehension

The second step in the memory process is comprehension – accurately understanding what you’ve seen or heard.

Most of the time this happens automatically. But not always.

✅ Sometimes we forget because we didn’t hear clearly enough in the first place.
✅ Sometimes we forget because we didn’t understand correctly what was said.

Why does this happen?

• Hearing loss can interfere with comprehension. If your hearing is declining, it’s worth addressing.
  

• Noisy environments (restaurants, group conversations, background noise) force your brain to work harder just to perceive words accurately. This drains cognitive resources needed to store the memory.
  

• Result? You might forget the conversation completely, or you might remember it incorrectly.

Scripture’s Wisdom on Listening and Understanding

The Bible emphasizes not just hearing, but listening for understanding:

🔹 Proverbs 18:13 – “To answer before listening – that is folly and shame.”
🔹 Proverbs 1:5 – “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”
🔹 Proverbs 18:15 – “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”

What to do this week

✔️ Practice listening for understanding. Hearing is passive. Listening and comprehending are active. And this is a set of skills we can practice and strengthen.

Try these:

1. Ask clarifying questions – “Tell me more,” “What do you mean?”
   

2. Repeat back what you heard to confirm accuracy.
   

3. Echo the last word or phrase they say with a questioning tone to encourage elaboration.

Why this matters

Improving comprehension strengthens memory. Step one was attention. Step two is understanding. These skills work together to build a clearer, sharper, and more reliable mind – one that reflects God’s wisdom and design.

Final encouragement
 Proverbs 2:2-5 reminds us:
 “Turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding… then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”

May this week be marked by purposeful listening – for better memory, deeper understanding, and a life that honors Him.

In Him, 

Dr. Matt
Christian Neuropsychologist | Fellow Traveler in Faith and Clarity
https://clearmindweekly.beehiiv.com/ 
www.drmattbridgman.com