Blueprints To Healthy Relationships – Communication
The goal is to make communication a strength in our relationships!
Genesis 2:24 “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
James 1:19-20 “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
It’s been said – “We have two ears and one mouth”
There is a progression here:
- If we speak quickly
- We listen poorly
- We then misunderstand and cause hurt and fractured relationships
- It opens the door to becoming angry quickly
Here are a few reasons we listen poorly:
- Distractions
- Overloaded brains
- Disunity
- Power Struggles
- Judging
James 2:13 “because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”
- Self-righteousness
- Self-centeredness
- Unforgiveness
It can be hard to listen when:
- You disagree
- Don’t care
- Tired
- Hungry
Another thing I find that hinders our conversations – Negative talk.
Use the sandwich approach – (Picture – visit link)
1 Peter 3:7 “Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wife, and treat them with honor as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the grace of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
Picture of battery cable corroding – (Visit link)
https://www.hzhmarine.com/news/how-to-clean-battery-corrosion-on-marine-lead-acid-batteries.html
Proverbs 25:28 “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”
