What are some empowering ways to communicate in the home amongst the people we care deeply for? How can we show the love of God to each other on a daily basis? Communication is seen in so many different ways as human beings. We, of course, use words to express ourselves, as the God of heaven does. We demonstrate our thoughts in our actions as Jesus spoke of in Matthew 7:16. These are known as verbal and non-verbal communications. It is true that we communicate all the time, we just need to be intentional with our communications with each other.

What are some ways to communicate with one another in the home? We can communicate with God our Father together. Joshua took the lead when he said, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24.15). Taking time to pray with one another and for one another is one of the greatest forms of serving and communication. To rise up and direct our attention to the Creator of all things is powerful and is a great encouragement to ourselves when we do so. However, every home is different and may go about the morning in different ways. Some may rise, pray and study the scriptures, while others may rise, get coffee and clear their minds before prayer and study. In other words, in matters of opinion, we allow each to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2.12).

Additionally, verbal and non-verbal communication is vital to our existence amongst those whom we live with. We can tell what is being communicated when words are used, and yet when words are not used we can have a great idea of what is thought as well. For instance, when Hannah was hurting deeply and her lips were moving, yet nothing was coming out, Eli knew something was wrong and thought she was drunk. However he was far off from what was the issue (1 Sam. 1.8-18). Furthermore, our non-verbal communication shouts loudly from the rooftop what we are thinking. For this reason we have to be true and honest with one another (Eph. 4.25). One thing that does not lie is “Fruit”. Again, Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits…” (Matt. 7.16). Hopefully we can all work on ensuring that our words and actions are in alignment.

Just as the church was created for good works, the family should be involved in good works amongst each other (Eph. 2.10). Just as David was looking for an opportunity to show kindness to the house of Saul, we should do likewise (2 Sam. 9.1). What will this require from us? Paying attention and simply seeking the wellness of one another. As spouses, consider nice gestures of praying with each other spontaneously or reading with one another to better ourselves. Also, go out of your way to say, “I am praying for you or I am rooting for you.” What beautiful things to say to each other. Furthermore, to give gifts of encouragement and blessings to show you are thinking of one another goes a long way. These moments communicate love, concern and care. If you notice one in the family somewhat off in their demeanor, being a memorable comforter will encourage and empower them to hang in there till a better moment in life arises (Job 16.2; 14.14).

Life has seasons when we are doing great in every area and it seems like our relationship with God is on cloud nine. Then there are times when time and chance occur, life throws curve balls, we find our spiritual equilibrium to be off centered, and we lose our balance (Eccl. 9.11). This is where communication in the family has to be exercised on a deeper level, lest the devil seek an occasion to destroy and devour as Peter stated (1 Peter 5.8). When our family members are being somewhat quiet, perhaps being disruptive to the homeostasis or stability of the home, let’s seek wisdom from above and try to help in any way possible. For this reason we bear one another’s burden and we look to build up each other with the word of God and space if need be (Gal. 6.2; Acts 20.32).

Finally, we can work on communication with one another when we pursue peace with all and seek to allow the word of God to have free course in our individual lives (Heb. 12.14). As individuals, it is so important to have peace within yourself and seek to maintain that peace with all in the home and the church (Mark 9.50). Unfortunately, due to the turmoil in some of our lives, sometimes it is difficult to be at peace with others. So, let us cultivate a spiritual mind that is filled with life and peace (Rom. 8.6). As Paul said, “Let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another” (Rom. 14.19). If we can pursue the peace God desires in the family, then and only then will the God of peace be with us all (Rom. 15.33). God is true.