How to Avoid Communication Breakdown 2

Family Matters

 

Welcome to this exciting time in God's presence. Last week, I started teaching on Understanding Communication as a foundation to be laid, if you do not want your relationship to crumble. This week, I shall be looking at Kinds of Communication.

Communication can either be verbal or non-verbal. In verbal communication we are simply talking about passing across a piece of information using words. Non-verbal involves the use of actions, facial expressions etc. The Bible says: Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed (1Sam 2:3). Beyond what comes out of your mouth, your action speaks louder.

Mastering the art of verbal communication is a major secret of success in family life. In verbal communication, it is wise to mention at this juncture that in a bid to air their minds, some people can say just anything and at anytime. This shows a lack of discretion. Weigh your words because words are as fragile as raw eggs, once broken they cannot be re-gathered.

Some men call their wives and children all types of terrible names - particularly out of anger. Some women in turn are experts at nagging. But that is an abuse of your tongue. God did not create the tongue to speak evil words, rathe,r it is an instrument of edification. The reason many people abuse their tongues is that its purpose is not known - and when purpose is not known abuse is inevitable! The Bible says: Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof (Proverbs 18:21). Also, Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth (Proverbs 6:2)

There are homes today, which are badly damaged and in big trouble because the tongue is not being controlled. They are victims of corrupt communication. But Ephesians 4:29 places the responsibility on us. It says: Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth... So, it is your duty to control what proceeds out of your mouth.

In non-verbal communication, there is a way you express displeasure without uttering a word. There is an adage that says, "Action speak louder than words." Just by watching your spouse's body language, you can tell when he/she is angry, sad, excited, etc. The longer you live together with someone, the more you are able to read his or her body language. That is non-verbal communication.

Communication is not only vital for husbands and wives, but for all members of the family. Therefore, keep the communication lines open. Don't' allow the enemy to tamper with it.

If you desire effective communication in your home, the right place to begin from is a personal relationship with God, through Jesus Christ. If you want to start this relationship right now, you can say this prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, I come to You today as a sinner. I believe You died for my sins and rose on the third day. Forgive me my sins. I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Make me a child of God today.

Congratulations! You are now a child of God!