Communication Principles

We live in relationships with other--family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. A key to strong relationships is good communication. Often we think of communication as a skill but it is more than a skill--it is a way of being. The scriptures contain principles that when followed will change our way of being leading to improved communications and better relationships. The following are some of these scriptural principals:

"Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath..." (James 1:19)

Master the art of asking questions (Moses 4:15-19)

"A wise...[person] will hear, and will increase learning (Proverbs 1:5)

Know when it is time to stop speaking (1 Nephi 8:38)

Choose not to be angry (3 Nephi 12:22, 3 Nephi 11:30)

Avoid contention (Mosiah 18:21, 3 Nephi 11:29)

Be careful with what you say (James 3)

Be merciful, "deal justly, judge righteously, and do good continually" for mercy and justice to be returned (Alma 41:14)

Take the time to get the story right (Alma 60-61)

Avoid criticizing (3 Nephi 14:1-5)

Quickly forgive (Doctrine and Covenants 64:8-10 and 1 Nephi 7:2)

"Let your speech be alway with grace" (Colossians 4:6)

Be aware of others and quick to observe (Mormon 1:2)

Don't be overbearing (Alma 38:12)

Use persuasion, and be long-suffering, gentle, meek, loving, and kind (Doctrine and Covenants 121:41-43)