Fresh Mannaby Pastor Tim BurtHave you ever felt upset with someone because they weren't really listening to you or understanding what’s in your heart? When that happens, how do you get them to pay attention and hear what you’re saying? Especially when it seems like they just aren’t good at it? Do you raise your voice? Do you shout or exaggerate? Do you scream or cry? Do you throw a tantrum, slam something down, or storm out of the room in frustration?Unfortunately, most people who demonstrate these behaviors have developed immature, manipulative, and inappropriate forms of communication. If that's you, I don't fault you. Most of us have developed forms of poor communication and have yet to learn better communication methods. For me, with nine siblings, it was often difficult to be heard. That's not an excuse. It's just what led us to lousy communication habits such as anger and yelling, which always prove ineffective. Renee and my early marriage had plenty of yelling that never resolved a thing! We can't stay in this place. God desires better for us so that we can be a brighter and brighter light in this world for Him! And so, we must change our ways. Communication skills are some of the most important skills to learn, and without God’s help, most people get into bad communication styles with little improvement throughout life!In the Old Testament, we read about God dealing with Elijah, teaching him how to truly pay attention to God’s voice. 1 Kings 19:11-12 (NLT) "Go out and stand before me on the mountain," the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire was a still small voice.” That still small voice—not the other activity—was the voice of the Lord. People too often think God is speaking through circumstances. He isn't. He speaks in His still, small voice. That was what God was teaching and training Elijah to pay attention to.Jesus, in teaching His disciples to learn to listen to God which meant listening to Him, taught them that sheep listen to their shepherd! He said, "...his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice." John 10:4-5 (NIV) That stranger is the voice outside of God’s character—the voice of accusation and condemnation, the voice of manipulation, lies and deceit, and the voice of discouragement—Satan’s voice. Jesus then taught them, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me...” (John 10:27) God, like a loving parent, is always teaching, correcting, instructing, and encouraging us IF we will listen from within. He will illuminate verses from the Bible that we read! He’ll impress upon our hearts the right words and actions to say and do. He will not teach us manipulative shortcuts of yelling, lying, deceit, or intimidation to get our own way. His voice will teach us to communicate from a heart of love, kindness, gentleness, and preference for others. As we read His word, these are His ways that we'll be instructed in. The books of James and Proverbs give much wisdom on appropriate communication, so learning from them is critical. James 1:19 (NIV) teaches us, "... take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry," If you learn to listen to the still small voice of God within you, you'll hear Him remind you of these words again and again. And that is how you will re-learn to communicate appropriately! We have to practice listening and responding to those impressions upon our hearts from the Lord.When you learn to communicate appropriately, you will find that people will listen to you more. Does this mean a life change in how you communicate is necessary? Absolutely! Will it take work over time? Absolutely! But the benefits that result will last and bless you throughout the rest of your life! It all starts with God speaking to you through His Word and in your heart. Could you tell me if you are listening? Can you hear His still, small voice now?Proverbs 15:31 (NLT) "If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise"In His love,Pastor Tim Burt
If today's Fresh Manna was a blessing to you, please hit the "LIKE" button below! And if you'd like to tell me why, write me at FreshMannaFeedback@gmail.comHelp us reach the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ!
or Donate Here:How Are Your Donations Used? click here Published by Pastor Tim BurtCopyright© 2024. All rights reservedhttps://TimBurt.org
