Evil Ears

(Proverbs 17:4 KJV)  A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.

Again let me remind you.  Evil people exist.  Evil is real.  Satan appears in the form of a serpent in Genesis 3.  He makes his final appearance in Revelation 20.  In between he is messing with us. 
This verse gives us two approaches to evil.  First it is an attitude, “listens” (7181) has the idea of inclination.  People who are under evil are drawn to destructive gossip.  Second it is a physical action.  “Pays attention” (238) is a word who’s meaning is rooted in the ear.

So?  Be sensitive to people’s attitudes and watch their actions.  It will be a real clue.  While you are at it, do a self check and see if some spiritual growth is indicated in your own life.