“Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, Sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.”
Proverbs 16:24
1 Corinthians 15:33 tells us, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
Communication is vital to any relationship. Studies show that communication is one of the top measures for the success or failure of a marriage.
There are five types of communication with others.
When we communicate, we should seek to be pleasant. We want our communication to represent the Lord Jesus Christ, because as Christians, we are “little Christs.”
- Written – such as email, text, social media
- Verbal – these are spoken words (including pitch, tone, cadence) whether in person or on the phone, Skype, etc.
- Non-verbal – this includes posture, facial cues, sighing, checking your watch, and avoiding eye contact. Research shows that social media is weakening the non-verbal skills in children. Younger generations struggle to identify emotions in another’s face.
- Visual – this is different than non-verbal, because it can be applied to objects and environments: like art, displayed books, etc.
- Listening – this is much more important than is let on. I am sure you have heard the old adage, “you have two ears and one mouth, so you should listen twice as much as you speak.” There is truth in that.
Evil communication, including listening with ill intent, and bad manners can destroy our chances to bring lost souls to the Lord. This grieves the Holy Spirit and we will be judged for it at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
We want to have a solid testimony so that unbelievers who see us will notice that we are pleasant and holy; lights in the darkness that are attractive.
As you go about our day, remember to keep pleasant speech on your lips.
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