Marriage

Developing Effective Communication
This material appears courtesy of Covenant Keepers

Be More Encouraging
One of the easiest ways to enhance your communication is to simply be more encouraging by regularly declaring your appreciation for each other. It is so easy to verbalize your criticism and to find fault; it seems to come forth with no effort at all. But, why is it that encouragement and praise for a job well done seem to get stuck in our throat?

Scripture teaches that praise and encouragement are a valid and necessary part of good communication. We are told to "encourage one another daily" (Heb. 3:13). Solomon taught that "a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised" (Prov. 31:30). Even the Father will one day say to His faithful ones, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21).

I am sure that your spouse has done something today that is worthy of appreciation and praise. Have you declared it? Does your husband or wife fear God and faithfully serve the Lord? Consider all the things your spouse does every day to benefit you and your family. Why not mention how blessed you feel to have him or her as your partner?

What will happen when you begin to become more encouraging in your communication? Your entire relationship will be strengthened because your spouse will sense your love and care.

• Are You Willing?
  
• Give Up Your Excuses
  
• Acknowledge Your Failures
  
• Make Time
  
• Reduce Your Distractions
  
• Dates and Recreation
  
• Prayer Together
  
• Meaningful Content
  
• Make Christ Your Example

Visit the Covenant Keepers website

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