Communication

By Claire Wadsworth

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1:19

The Bible has much to say about communication, emphasizing honesty, wisdom, love and building others up. “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.” Ephesians 4:29

Communication is central to our lives, from the beginning God designed us for connection (Triangle). He is the ultimate communicator. He desires that we communicate with him and others (Triangle). As a Communicator, God spoke creation into existence, Genesis 1, revealed Himself through Scripture, 2 Timothy 3:16, and sent Jesus as the “Word” made flesh, John 1:1,14. Communication should be easy but actually as I work globally, communication styles vary so much, not just languages and dialects but the vocabulary we use, our body language, hand gestures are all open to miscommunication. Relationships depend on communication, healthy marriages, friendships, and church communities are built on Godly communication, Colossians 4:6. And so we go back to our role model, Jesus, and our instruction book, the Bible, and we continue to grow in our own communication skills. One thing I am learning (still growing in) is to be gentle and kinder in my communication, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”  Proverbs 15:1. To be honest and transparent in our communication “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” Proverbs 12:22, but learning to do this in a gentle, loving way. Then we want to be encouragers and offer uplifting communication, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24.

A personal reflection: My daughter, who is training as a Speech and Language Therapist, recently had to record a 20-minute conversation and analyse how she communicated—her words, tone, gestures, and expressions. She was surprised by what she learned. Have you ever considered doing the same? How aware are we of what we communicate—not just through words but through our presence, attitude, and actions?

The Gospel is spread through communication, sharing the Good News requires speaking, writing, and expressing God’s truth, Matthew 28:19-20. Each one of us are called to be communicators of His word and love for mankind. How do you communicate the Gospel and to whom?

Communication holds a deep holistic significance, aligning with both Spiritual and relational dimensions. Communication within the framework is about much more than just words, it is seen as a holistic practice that involves physical, mind, heart and spirit circles, always seeking to promote the truth, healing and connection in the light of God. When we search the scriptures God communicated with people in many ways, through a donkey, through writing on the wall, through dreams and visions, and being with people in conversation such as Zaccheus having tea together, sitting on the well with the Samaritan women and so many more. So today I encourage you to consider how does God normally communicate with you and how do you communicate with Him, Father, Spirit and Son.

Some thoughts to ponder:

• How, when, where do I communicate with God? Do I have enough time communicating with God?
• Who am I more comfortable communicating with, God the Father, Jesus the Son, or the Holy Spirit?
• How does communication style affect others? Is there something I want to grow in, be more aware of when speaking with others?
• What scripture passages are coming up for you as commune with Him today?