Good communication is the lubricant that enables great relationships.
Communication with people in our life is enabled by our ability to communicate with God.
As we can see in the sermon on Job 2, as our attitudes and intentions are focused on seeking God, He can work in us to further perfect us in His image. Job did not develop good communication with his family, and it yielded bitterness towards him and God in the lives of his wife and children.
Communication can be significantly improved by being intentional in studying how we observe God's character qualities in the lives of others and ourselves. One activity that can help you learn about God's character and increase communication with a friend or spouse is as follows;
1. Select a Character quality, review the definition, verse, examples - See this character quality list as an example
2. Set up a weekly time for an hour
3. Write each other a letter. Begin with an affectionate greeting. Confirm your commitment how much you appreciate them and want to help and grow together. List facts and not attributing motives to them. Answer 8 questions;
- How I feel when you show...
- How I feel when you fail to show ....
- Specific times and examples you showed ....
- Specific times you failed to show....
- How I respond and feel when you show....
- How I respond and feel when you don't show....
- What attitudes God is building in me when you show ....
- What attitudes God is building in me when you fail to show...
Exchange letters, don't debate or react. Read it eagerly. Look to discover blind spots.
Ask for prayer to overcome weaknesses, memorize scripture to overcome and gain victory in that area.
It can seem hard but is worth all the effort.