How well do you communicate? Are you a good listener? Some people are eloquent with their words but they don’t listen to what others are saying. Others fumble with their words but are great listeners. Then there are those who fail miserably in both areas and others who excel.
Effective communication is vital to our spiritual journey and the tasks God has given us. When missionaries are sent to a country, they spend at least a year immersed in learning the language and customs of the people they’ll be serving. Understanding the people’s culture is necessary to communicate effectively with them. A friendly gesture here in the U.S. may be taboo in another country.
How to solve the world’s problems
In my simplistic thinking, so many problems could be solved if people would just get together with open minds and open hearts and have an honest conversation. If they would listen to one another without judgment or preconceived ideas and then pause and think before responding, misunderstandings could be avoided. If they tried to see the matter from the other person’s point of view, maybe it would help them be more understanding, more empathetic.
Bible Verse of the Day
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
James 1:19 ESV
Prayer
Dear Father, we come to You with thanksgiving that we have the ability to communicate with one another. We’re thankful for this gift of empathy and understanding that allows us to be Christ to the world. Please direct our words, Father, that we may use our speech to lift up and not tear down; that we may help others by listening and giving thoughtful counsel. Please open our hearts and minds that we may listen and communicate without judgment or condemnation.
Lord, we also ask for effective communication for the world’s leaders. Please help them put aside their individual agendas and think of their people. Please bring peace to Ukraine, Lord. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
