Credibility – Essential for Effective Communication

Credibility is an essential principle for effective communication and is dependent on three basic components. First, what is spoken must be rational and believable. The second component of credibility is integrity and honesty, for these are not only interwoven into the spoken language but also obviously seen in the person’s behavior.

A third component of credibility is demonstrated by the willingness to be held accountable whenever failure is experienced. The importance of revealing temptations to a trusted accountability partner is apparent. Exposing temptations diminishes their power while giving us credibility not only as a person but also as a believer.

The Apostle Paul tells us to "make sure your conversations are full of grace” for then they reflect the character of Christ Jesus. Listen to Ephesians 4:29: “Let there be no more foul language, but only good words suitable for the occasion which God can use to help other people.” This is laying up treasures in heaven.  

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What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself.

~Ephesians 4:25 The Message

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An Argumentative Attitude Deadlocks Communications

Difficulties with communication may evolve into a communications impasse if an argumentative attitude exists. Such a mindset attempts to disqualify a person’s beliefs, values, and ideas. This does not mean that debate should be avoided, but in its worst form debate’s objective is to discredit not only the person but their character.

Individuals deadlocked in a communications impasse must ask themselves this question: What is the payoff for me and my relationships if I maintain an argumentative attitude? One consequence is losing trust and intimacy, which leaves individuals isolated in a position of facing the future all alone.

It takes patience to inaugurate a different style of communication. A critical first step in dislodging an argumentative attitude is being willing to acknowledge the other person's point of view. Ask God for patience and wisdom to help you gain understanding. Then be resolute in applying what  you receive from the Lord God to your situation.  

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Your speech should always be gracious and sprinkled with insight so that you may know how to respond to every person.

~Colossians 4:6 Common English Bible

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Communication Essentials

Communication is the key to successful relationships, for it is the baseline of the way a relationship evolves and the degree of happiness that is experienced. Communication involves more than speaking words which must be accepted and interpreted. Successful communication must make sense to both the sender and the receiver.

Human beings communicate in a variety of ways. If I place my hand on the shoulder of the one to whom I'm speaking, that gesture could suggest an array of messages. That gesture and other non-verbal messages affect what is verbally communicated. Our eyes communicate as much as the spoken words. A smile or a frown speaks louder than words.

Adam and Eve were given language so they could understand and accept each other’s need for intimacy and closeness. God knew it would be the key factor in nurturing each other and necessary for resolving conflict. Communication is essential for fellowship with the Lord God our Creator, for he is always interested in what we have to say.  

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Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, nor cut them out.  

~Colossians 4:6 The Message

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