Speak Biblically To Each Other

Husbands and wives must not only be honest and open, they have to do it in a biblical manner. A person can be open and honest, while still hurting others with their speech. Paul says, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Col. 4:6). As Christians we have a responsibility to speak in a way that encourages others and help lead them to edification.

In Colossians, Paul had much more in mind than using curse words when he said, “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). “Paul is talking about words that tear people apart. The kind of speech that’s made up of unkind words, words that cause and complicate problems rather than solve problems. These are words that hurt, the kinds of words you used to use in your old way of life.

Try being constructive when you are in those situations instead of being destructive; your words should build up instead of tear down. Wholesome words, or words that “build up” are those which are directed toward the problem that has come up in order to help the other person, in this case, your spouse. If your significant other has been doing something wrong, then they most likely need help. Not to be tore down, but built up.

When husbands and wives are honest, open and speak biblically, real communication occurs. The minor misunderstandings and problems that occur in the marriage relationship are dealt with and begin to eliminate daily, because couples are attacking problems—not each other. A big part of great communication!

Next week I’m talking about “Controlling Righteous & Unrighteous Anger” in part 3 of “5 Tips to Communicating Effectively.”

~Nick~