Keeping Emotions in Check

Effective communication builds a bridge to healthy family relationships, workplace success, and lasting friendships. Lack of communication leaves problems unresolved, creating a climate for negative emotions to erupt. Appropriate, beneficial communication positively affects one's frame of mind, disposition, and mood.

Improving communication skills is possible by making important personal changes. The first step is being aware of what affects you emotionally. Certain people and groups can have a negative impact on our disposition, so be alert and honest with yourself in order to utilize appropriate exits when needed.

A second step is to reveal hidden thoughts and feelings to a friend or counselor. Good, basic communication depends on patience, a clear mind, and a calm spirit. Hebrews 12:1 encourages you to "put into submission what hinders or entangles you in sin and then you can run the race of life by constantly fixing your eyes on Christ Jesus.” 

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A fool expresses all his emotions, but a wise person controls them.

~Proverbs 29:11 God’s Word Translation

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Communicate with a Calm, Clear Head

When asked, "Would you like to be a more effective communicator?" the majority of respondents answer in the affirmative. An area where most individuals say they need to improve their communication skills is one where strong emotions push voices out of bounds and the need to remain calm and in control becomes absolutely necessary.

When communications deteriorate into loud voices, with each person defensively trying to over-talk the other, attempts to listen with empathy and understanding are lost. Social skills and effective communication tend to take a back seat as powerful emotions take sway of rationality. 

An essential principle for effective communication is to exhibit a calm demeanor and a clear head when loud voices and strong emotions attempt to block interactions. Jesus  intervened when Martha was angry at Mary for not sharing the workload. Jesus asked her to focus on the important issue rather than reacting with anger. This is possible with refocusing, patience, and prayer.  

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Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise.

~Proverbs 12:18 The Message

 For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

~Matthew 12:37 English Standard Version

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