Effective communication is crucial in any relationship. How we treat and speak to one another determines if the relationship is healthy and wholesome. In today's social climate, where everybody wants to express their truth, it is more prevalent than ever that we think before we speak. It is also crucial that we all work to improve our communication and interpersonal skills. (Romans 12:2)
As I engage in conversations or observe people speaking to one another, I see a disturbing trend. Many do not consider how their attitude may offend someone. Because they have been talking this way for so long, they feel everybody must accept how they share their thoughts. Their lack of respect and how they express themselves make it difficult for anybody to communicate with them.
Most likely, every week, we will have a conversation with somebody. It might be with someone in your family, a neighbor, maybe your boss or co-worker. It could be within an organization, the check-out clerk at a grocery store, or your doctor. Your tone, body language, and how you say what you say can make the difference between peace and conflict. Here are four key factors to consider to be better at talking to others.
1. Your Tone and Attitude Matters – Not everybody should be a leader because some do not know how to communicate effectively with others. Unfortunately, some in leadership positions speak in the harshest and unkind way to others. They express themselves intending to offend someone. With precision and a double-edged sword, they use specific words to make their point. (Proverbs 15:1, Colossians 4:6).
With no compassion for how their words will affect anybody, like a sledgehammer, they pound their anger, frustrations, and dissatisfaction to intimidate and get their way. It can lead to low morale and an unhappy team. This undignified means of communication must be avoided to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
2. Get to the Point – As we all know, women love to talk and have an opinion about everything. However, consider keeping the conversation short and to the point. You do not need to share every detail, yet you need to speak the truth. Be considerate of the other person's time and opinions. Remember to listen as much as you speak by allowing the other person a chance to speak. Respect their views as much as they regard yours, even if they disagree. (Matthew 7:12; Philippians 2:4). If they can listen to you, then you should be kind enough to listen to them.
3. Stay on focus – What is this conversation about? Did you call to gossip? Do you want to share somebody’s business? Just what is the point of this conversation? Stay on the key reason why you need to have this conversation. As I often tell my friends, if I do not ask, do not tell. (Proverbs 16:28). We should not practice gossiping and sharing other people's business at all.
4. Show Some Respect– I know this culture feels they cannot talk without using filthy language. Dear One, please do not assume we all use profanity as you do. And nobody should have to be subjected to your foul mouth every time they have a conversation with you. So, have respect and aim for eloquence when your emotions run high. We should practice using a rich vocabulary that edifies and builds each other up. (Ephesians 5:4; 4:29). When you express how you feel, try to use a canvas of words that reflects the depth and substance of your heart posture.
The art of effective communication is not only speaking but understanding when to speak and how to share your thoughts. It entails being graceful in whatever situation you find yourself in and spreading kindness by pouring out a bouquet of goodness while leaving a lasting impression of God’s love into each heart you speak to.
I pray the musical selection, Changed by Hannah Kerr stirs your heart and encourages you to use a canvas of words that reflect your relationship with the Lord.
TIME FOR REFLECTION: Can your means of communicating use an upgrade? What has this devotional taught you about using a canvas of words that reflects who Christ is? Leave your comment, hit that heart, and share.
