What Did You Say?

Kevin and I will sometimes kid each other with the familiar picture of us growing old together in our rocking chairs, and not always hearing one another. Well, I don’t know about you, but there are many times that we can be close to each other, and either I didn’t hear him, or I’d only catch a portion of what he said.

Yes. We all want to be heard. This photo reflects a desire to be understood, which is also important, but for the moment, I’m referring to the ability to share in a conversation.

Bible Verses on Communication:

• James 1:19: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger”.
• Proverbs 10:19: “When words are many, sin is not absent, but the one who holds his tongue is wise”.
• Proverbs 18:13: “If anyone gives answer before he listens, it is his folly and shame”.
• Proverbs 12:18: “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing”. 

When Jesus walked among us, He spoke to groups of thousands and to smaller ones like His disciples. He conversed with individuals as He prayed and healed them. He also made time to get away and talk with His Father, in prayer. Jesus speaks to us today. We can hear Him in our spirits as we pray, read our Bible, and worship with other believers.

Communication is essential. Even those who are deaf or mute have their own way of communicating their preferences. This is a lengthy topic, but God’s Word gives us some wise advice. If this topic is a challenge for you, like it is for me, I suggest remembering three (3) things: pray about hearing and responding to the other person, let that person know you love and care about what they have to say, and keep on forgiving when patience starts to fade.