Gail Rodgers Sharing the Journey

Light On My Path Part 23 - Communicate Differently

by Gail Rodgers

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God.” (Ephesians 4:29, 30a)

Recognize and admit any negative communication cycle you are in.

• Ask God to forgive you for grieving Him with the negative overflow from your mouth.
• Ask Him to help you hold your tongue and to give you wisdom in your responses.
• He can help you refrain from saying those accusing, mean, whiny or hurtful things that spring defensively from your heart.
• Ask God to help you understand the needs of the other person and put them before your own. This is not easy; yet the other heart has been affected by the tense communication, too, and this cycle needs to be broken.
• Speak building words and not words that tear down or cut. Choose words that benefit the other person.

As you depend on God to help you, you will find your defenses coming down and there will be new opportunities to communicate on things that need change. Make the first move in God’s power. Our tension-filled relationships and homes need His healing touch.