Healthy CommunicationSample

Timing Is Everything

Timing is extremely important in good communication. Ecclesiastes 3:7 says there’s a time to speak and a time to be silent, depending on the issue and situation at hand. I learned early on that sometimes one of the most spiritual things I can do is keep my mouth shut.

This doesn’t mean you should never talk about an issue, but you should look for the right time to discuss the topic if you want to be well-received.

Some factors are very practical. For instance, I’ve learned it’s best to not discuss a problem when I’m upset, tired, or worn out. It’s also important to think through the other person’s mental and emotional state before bringing up a complicated issue. The best way to approach these matters is when our emotions have had a chance to stabilize and when we feel mentally and physically up to addressing the issue in a loving way.

It’s also very important to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and trust Him to open up the right moment to confront an issue or express your needs. He’s the best one to give us advice on the timing of our conversations, and He’s always faithful to guide our steps when we ask Him to.

Pray: “Holy Spirit, please lead and guide me today in all of my conversations. Thank You in advance for showing me the right timing for each person and subject, and for giving me the grace to be kind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”