Communication

When it comes to communication, each counseling session begins the same way: 

“We have a communication problem.”

That is true in the most technical sense, though the couple’s understanding of communication is nearly always limited and secularized.

While they may not be talking well to each other, the problem is much deeper than they realize. Communication problems begin in the heart of the person while reaching into the community of the Trinity.

James asked, “What causes quarrels and conflicts” and followed by answering his question in a threefold manner by saying our passions, desires, and coveting ways are the source of our communication problems. (See James 4:1-2)

But communication is more than a heart problem; it is a divine problem. The Trinity is the original communicating community, and God made us in His image (Genesis 1:26-27). 

Though our hearts are broken and stand in need of a biblical transformation, that can only happen when we align ourselves to the divine--the original community. This book will walk you through how to do this.

The first chapter will start where all good communication begins: with God. The second chapter will motivate you to branch out by exporting what you have learned to your closest friends.

Finally, the third chapter will give you the opportunity to expand your communicative prowess to your larger group of friends.

The goal is that you will be able to build real community with God, with yourself, with your closest friends, and with your extended group of friends. Perhaps the borders of redemptive communication will not stop with only a few relationships.

The most effective way you can use this book is to read slowly, reflectively, and prayerfully while adding journaling and daily practice to your list of habits. I would not recommend reading just to be reading. 

At the end of each chapter, I have “call to action” opportunities specifically designed to challenge you to work this content into your soul.

Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. - Philippians 2:12-13

It would be best if you had a friend, spouse, or mentor that you could immediately share the content of this book. 

Finally, if you want to become a more effective communicator, start communicating more effectively today. Let the “call to action” opportunities work for you.

Too often books are read and shelved. I would not recommend you do that with this book. Your goal is not to notch your “book belt” as though you are on a quest to read books for the sake of reading books.

Make personal and relational transformation your aim. That may mean you read this book several times. Maybe it becomes the source material for your small group meetings. Perhaps you’ll want to teach a class using this content or maybe preach a sermon series.

I promise if you can practically grasp this content, which will be measured by how well you talk to those who are closest to you, your life and relationships will change.

That is my prayer for you and your friends.

Rick

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. - Ephesians 4:29