Monday, June 10, 2013

Intentional Marriage & Family--part 3


Being intentional in our marriage and with our children causes us to think before taking action.  That’s a good thing!  Thinking through our COMMUNICATION will help to avoid (or at least minimize) conflict.  Several questions to consider asking ourselves include why, what and how we communicate. 

Why should we be so concerned about our communication?  It encompasses every aspect of our relationship and can either destroy or build up.  Therefore, we should check our heart and make sure we’re “on the same team” before opening our mouth.  Our desire should be to mutually come to a resolve, for the benefit of both persons. 

What should I say? or not say?  Sometimes the most powerful message is the lack of words, meaning we put thought into what we say before it comes out of our mouth.  This gives us time to calm our emotions, instead of blasting the other person.  “Be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.” James 1:19

How should I express myself?  Timing can be everything!  Choose a time to talk when there will be no (few?) interruptions and both of you can focus on the discussion.  Choose an appropriate location, hopefully a private place.  Let the other person know by your body language and tone of voice that you want to hear what they have to say and settle things peacefully. 

Communication, when used effectively, is a positive and significant force in your relationship with your husband...and with your children. 

Phil 2:2  “Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose...let each of you regard one another as more important than himself(herself).”

No comments:

Post a Comment