Hello Everyone,
How vital is communication to the process and development of peace in the world today. We could look at it on a personal or international level in order to answer that question.
Internationally, nations have ambassadors who represent and communicate their nation’s own particular views on a variety of subjects. Nations send delegates to the United Nations specifically to communicate their self-interest with other member nations about urgent international needs. It is clear to see that there is “communication” of course. But the best that could be said of all this communication is what God said through Jeremiah, “Peace, peace! When there is no peace.” We see the disquieting news everyday of the conflict and hatred despite all the talk. We live in a fractured world without peace.
There is however a different kind of communication that will eventually bring lasting peace and unity.
Godly communication isn’t based on a “my view versus your view” scenario. It is communication that first and foremost willingly acknowledges God’s truth in any relationship where there may be something less than peace. Humility is therefore a foundational aspect to godly dialog. Without humbly recognizing God’s authority over us personally, open communication will almost inevitably cease, resulting in making negative assumptions of others. Confusion and relational dysfunction then follow. It’s not a difficult thing to understand. Paul wrote, “For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.” (1Corinthians 14:33) Godly communication isn’t difficult for a humble mind to understand either. But it requires a humbled steadfast effort on our part in order for us to be able to listen, to speak, to edify, to accept correction, to forgive, to encourage, to uplift and to make peace. Paul, pointing out the need for godly communication, also wrote, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (Colossians 4:6)
Have a meaningful Sabbath.
Marshall Stiver
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Please pray for the meetings we are having this weekend as we strive to seek our Father’s will in looking forward. The sense of urgency we feel as we observe the almost daily unfolding of “unthinkable” events needs to be channeled by the head of the Church to achieve His Father’s will. There is much to be done in both the individual and collective areas of our responsibilities. As Mr. Stiver points out, communication is very important in our endeavor to work together in a family style of governance. Communication will be an important aspect of our meetings.
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Please note the prayer request on the website for Lacey Eckert (Twigg). Her condition is critical.
