It's not you. It's me.

COMMUNICATION

Pastor Mark Johnson January 18, 2015

Two challenges last week:

1. Remember, the only person you can change is you.

2. Read 1 Corinthians 13 every day through this series.

1 Corinthians 13:1-8
One of the most important truths in relationships is seeing clearly.

To be safe on the road you have to have a clean windshield. I. How do you see the people you are in relationship with?

How you see others and how you see the world around you will impact your relationship with people.

This is key to communication:

Three aspects of communication.

1. How you talk to others

2. How you listen to others

3. How you see others

Your communication will get wiser when you see the other person clearly. What is their intent in your life?

James 1:19-20

Again, communication is not simply what you say.

II. How do you listen?

When you come in the door blasting, what kind of reaction do you think you are going to get?

Here is what to rehearse: What can I ask that will help me understand how they feel and what is going on?

Don’t go in making accusations, attacking and angry.

It doesn’t achieve the righteousness of God.

Listening is working at understanding.

Do you see the difference? We are quick to react instead of being quick to listen.

III. Slow to speak.
When there is trouble, it is like driving on ice. Talking is speeding up. So, be slow to speak. Remember:

1. Get your windshield clean. How do you see this person?

2. Don’t blast the horn. Be quick to listen. Try to understand.

3. Be slow to speak. Weigh your words.

Quick lessons:

1. No name calling.

2. No yelling.

3. Stay on the topic.

4. Aim for a unified goal.

Ephesians 4:11-16

Assignments:

1. How do you view others?

2. Pray about your reaction. Repent if necessary.

3. Read 1 Corinthians 13 each day.

4. MemorizeJames 1:19-20