Many battles in life stem from false assumptions that are made due to lack of communication. For instance, we share a wall with our neighbors and—since moving in 6 months ago—they’ve been redecorating. The garden, the garage, the bathrooms, the bedrooms; nothing has escaped a hammer, an electric power tool, or a paintbrush.
Recently, I took an important online exam at home and needed absolute quiet in order to concentrate and complete all the questions within the allotted 2 hours. I should have informed my busy neighbors about the upcoming exam, but kept putting it off.
On the day of the exam, I readied myself, logged on, and after 5 minutes into it, I heard the dreaded sound of a hammer banging on something. The neighbors had scheduled workers to install carpeting for that morning, and they couldn’t be delayed. They ripped up old carpets and laid new ones for the next 2 hours. I couldn’t concentrate with all the noise and, needless to say, I didn’t complete all the questions within the allotted time.
I have yet to receive the results from that exam, but whatever the outcome, I have learned an important lesson: Don’t assume anything without having established clear, truthful communication.
Our relationship with other believers in Jesus requires that we speak what is true in a loving way: “Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket” (Proverbs 25:11).
As we grow in understanding the truths of God’s Word, we mature in our relationship with Him and with other believers in Jesus. We can then better “speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ” (Ephesians 4:15). Our faith and unity will grow as our edifying, truth-based communication flows.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Mark 7:1-37
More:
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:11 and consider how your words can be used to accomplish what Paul is instructing us to do.
Next:
With whom do you need to communicate? Why is it vital that we speak the truth and do so in love?
Gary Shultz on July 20, 2014 at 6:38 am
Don’t you hate it when others don’t respect our plans? I have to direct myself to Christ’s life. He was always pulled in different directions with demands and requests, yet He maintained compassion and accomplished all of God’s will. Aaaah, I have so much to learn. Thanks
Ruth O'reilly-smith on July 20, 2014 at 8:10 am
Absolutely right Gary. Thank the Lord I did pass that exam, even though I didn’t do too well in the ‘life-test’. I am learning to communicate better but it’s something I need to daily remind myself of – keeping short accounts with others. I’m reminded of Colossians 3:12-15 “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”
Mike Wittmer on July 24, 2014 at 6:03 pm
I need courage to be honest with others, but it’s the loving thing to do–the charity of clarity.
Winn Collier on July 30, 2014 at 2:57 pm
last night I experienced a woman exerting courageous, clear communication – and it was a wonderful thing.