Communication Guidelines

Proverbs 18:21; 25:11; Job 19:2; James 3:8-10; 1 Peter 3:10

1. Be ready to listen and do not answer until the other person has finished talking. Proverbs 18:13; James 1:19
2. Be slow to speak. Think first. Do not be hasty in your words. Speak in such a way that the other can understand and accept what you say. Proverbs 15:23, 28; 21:23; 29:20; James 1:19
   
3. Speak the truth always, but do it in love. Do not exaggerate. Ephesians 4:15, 25; Colossians 3:9
   
4. Do not use silence to frustrate the other person. Explain why you are hesitant to speak at this time.
   
5. Do not become involved in quarrels. It is possible to disagree without quarreling. Proverbs 17:14; 20:3; Romans 13;13; Ephesians 4:31
   
6. Do not respond in anger. Use a soft and kind response. Proverbs 14:29; 15:1; 25:15; 29:11; Ephesians 4:26-31
   
7. When you are in the wrong, admit it and ask for forgiveness. James 5:16 When someone confesses to you, tell them you forgive them. Be sure it is not brought back up to that person in an unforgiving way. Proverbs 17:9; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13; 1 Peter 4:8
   
8. Avoid nagging. Proverbs 10:19; 17:9; 20:5
   
9. Do not blame or criticize the other person. Instead restore... encourage... edify. Romans 14:13; Galatians 6:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:11. If someone verbally attacks, criticizes, or blames you, do not respond in the same way manner. Romans 12:17, 21; 1 Peter 2:22 ff; 3:9
   
10. Try to understand the other person¼s opinion. Make allowances for differences. Be concerned about their interests. Philippians 2:1-4; Ephesians 4:2
    

- Dr. Joe Brumfield