EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION FOR IMPACT

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up” – Ephesians 4:29a (NIV)

God’s Word is rich in instructions on EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION for IMPACT: “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” (Eph.4:29, NIV). Today’s meditation passage outlines principles for effective and impactful communication by urging believers to move put off the "old self" and embrace a "new self" in Christ (vv.17-23). This spiritual, attitudinal, and lifestyle transformation involves putting off falsehood, anger, bitterness, deceit, malice, and unwholesome talk; and embracing truthfulness, kindness, forgiveness, and edifying speech – speaking truthfully and using speech to build up others. Our ‘talk’ springs from our thoughts!

Communication is a mutual exchange of information and understanding by an effective means. Every communication involves a sender, the message, and a receiver. Six primary means of communication are: speaking, writing, listening, reading, visuals, and non-verbal. The main objectives are to: convey information; assure understanding; motivate action; or persuade. Effective communication is the core of all rewarding relationships and leadership activities, as the ability to communicate enhances understanding and enables leaders to influence the attitudes and actions of their teammates and followers.

Scripturally, effective communication involves speaking with kindness, truth, and edification, while prioritizing active listening. Scriptures also stress the importance of building others up with our words, avoiding harmful, hurtful language, and responding with gentleness to turn away wrath: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness” (Pro.15: 1-2). James 1:19 stresses the worth of listening before speaking: “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath.”

Here are 7 Biblical Principles for Effective Communication:

Speaking with kindness and respect: using language that builds others up, not tears them down (Eph.4:29). 

Active Listening: truly hearing what others have to say before responding (Jam.1:19). 

Speaking the Truth in Love: communicating honestly but with grace and compassion (Eph.4:15). 

Avoiding Gossip and Slander: “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much” (Pro.20:19, NIV). Rather than speak negatively about others, we should focus on building positive relationships. 

The Power of Words: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Pro.18:21). Our words can have a profound impact, so we should use them wisely. 

Gentle Responses: A gentle response can de-escalate conflict and promote understanding (Pro.15:1). 

Edifying Communication: Instead of using words to hurt, we’re to use words to help others grow in their faith, built up spiritually and emotionally. 

By applying these scriptural principles, we can cultivate more meaningful, rewarding and impactful relationships and contribute to a more positive environment in our homes, workplaces, churches, and communities.