Sunday, February 23, 2025
Have you ever been frustrated with someone for not understanding what you were trying to say? Something that was so clear to you, but they just … didn’t … get it.
God made each of us wonderfully complex and unique, and this uniqueness also impacts our preferred communication style.
Psalm 139:13-14
13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
However, this marvelous workmanship also created others, who often don’t have our preferred communication style, and that can lead to misunderstanding and frustration. Understanding our own preferences and taking time to acknowledge God’s work in others to understand their preferences can help us better connect and strengthen our relationships.
Today, set aside time to seek God and be in his presence. Listen to what God is trying to teach you about your words and how you respond to others. Then respond to the following questions and reflect on how you can take a step toward using words that are helpful and healthful.
Discussion Questions:
Ice breaker: Share a time when someone’s words encouraged you.
What are some common “language barriers” that cause communication problems?
Read Matthew 20:29-34. What do you learn about our tendency as humans? What do you learn about Jesus?
In regards to communication, what does growing in Christ-likeness mean to you?
How can you respond with more compassion in your interactions with others this week?
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for making me so wonderfully complex, and although it is often frustrating, thank you for making others equally complex. I praise you for what they bring to the world. Today, help me listen to others well and with compassion. Help me demonstrate the love of Christ to all I encounter. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 4:29
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
This post was written by Kelly Pagel, a Perrysburg attendee, and a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.