Communication: The Steering Wheel

 "Lord, I need You! Oh, I need You. Ev'ry hour I need You. My one defense, my righteousness, oh God, how I need You...Where You are, Lord, I am free. Holiness is Christ in me!" These truths, presented by Matt Maher in his song, "Lord, I Need You," should be present in our daily lives. We must never forget that we need God in every moment of our lives. He is essential, not optional. I saw this online one day: God wants full custody, not just weekend visitation. We need to commit our entire lives to Him and let Him transform us. From there, we can move forward to leading our followers, once we are in right standing with Him.

The central Scripture for tonight comes from Matthew 7:28-29, which says: "When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at His teaching, because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law." (NIV) Jesus knew that He needed to communication effectively for His message to get across. Communication is the steering wheel that the leader uses to direct his team.

John W. Gardner notes, "If I had to name a single all-purpose instrument of leadership, it would be communication." Communication is critical. Without it, your team is sunk, with you as captain of the ship. You must be able to clearly communication your vision and plans to your followers so that they can help you move forward successfully.

Maxwell gives three C's for effective communication: "Be Consistent...Be Clear...Be courteous." These three factors are key in effective communication. Don't say one thing at one point and then something completely different the next. Give all necessary details and leave no gray areas. In all of that, keep your followers in mind and be conscious of their feelings and how they may react to the way you communicate. "Never forget that as the leader, your communication sets the tone for the interaction among your group." (Maxwell)

I wrote a lot about communication last night also. Take it all to heart and work on your communication skills.

Review the article from the link below for more from Maxwell on communication.

Maxwell on Communication

Following are more Bible verses about communication.

"The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught." (Isaiah 50:4, NIV) God will guide your words, if you ask Him and let Him take control.

"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (Colossians 4:6, NIV) God will give you the answer at the proper time.

"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." (Ephesians 4:29, NIV) Watch your mouth!

The reflection question for tonight asks, "In what ways can you improve your communication?" There are many forms of communication: written, verbal, visual, and others. You may excel in one area but lack in others. Work on those areas where you are weaker. Enhance your communication skills. It is a valuable investment and crucial to your success as a leader.

God bless you!