As we consider the moral and spiritual issues we face in our culture today, it is essential that we return to a biblical concept for influencing our families and children. The moral and biblical lessons we are imparting to our children and families need to be taught in those every day, teachable moments wherever you are and whatever you’re doing. To do this, we must demonstrate authentic faith in every aspect of our lives!
Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? These are all crucial questions that we must ask ourselves before we hit send! In this final message of the series, we are going to consider the last crucial question—“Is it clear?” Dr. Eggerichs writes, “We need to be clear in our own minds as to where we are headed in what we are saying; otherwise, those on the receiving end will be more confused. As pastors, we say, ‘If there is a mist in the pulpit, there’s a fog in the pew.’”
Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? These are all crucial questions that we must ask ourselves before we hit send!
“People hear your words of truth, but the feel your words of kindness… I am defining kindness as being a loving and respectful person” (Before You Hit Send page 63). Our first concern in communicating with others is to be truthful; but when you communicate truth without love and respect, you are not communicating at all because people will not listen to someone who is disrespectful and rude. In this message, we will look at several motivations for communicating with kindness.
Over the next four weeks, we are going to look at some biblical principles of communication. Of course, it is important to think through “all the possible consequences of your tweet, email, or Facebook post before hitting ‘send,’ [but] the true maxim the title represents is ‘Think before you speak.’” In his book, “Before You Hit Send,” Dr. Emerson Eggerichs suggests that we should ask four important questions before we choose to communicate with others.
1. Is it true?
2. Is it kind?
3. Is it necessary?
4. Is it clear?
Being self-centered in a relationship causes many problems: We mislead others when we are self-absorbed. We misunderstand others when we are self-conscious. We misjudge others when we are self-righteous. The only way to overcome our self-centeredness is to become Christ-centered! A heart given to Christ is a heart that joyfully focuses on Him. We see…
Relationships are hard! It doesn’t matter what relationship we’re talking about—relationships are hard. A few minutes ago, we watched as two sisters collided after years of hurt feelings and pent up bitterness. Hostility reigned in that relationship! Years of joyful memories and glad celebrations were lost because of one moment—one decision. What was that decision? It was when one sister assumed the worst from the other and retaliated with hurtful words. When we make assumptions about others, we typically assume the worst. Why? The answer is inside us!
Communicating Love to Your Wife. What is the Example of Love…
“Hearing” in the New Testament
The word “hear” in the New Testament does not usually refer to an auditory experience.
It usually means to pay heed. So as you listen to your spouse you need to pay heed to what he or she is saying.
Communicating in a Tech-Driven World
-Interface? Or face to face?
-Is this a positive or negative thing?
-Does the Bible speak to this issue —especially as it relates to our families?