Misunderstandings

Communication is one of the best skills a person can have. Needless to say, it is extremely helpful in the Christian life. From witnessing to encouraging to building Christian relationships, this is one skill that could always use a little improvement.

Jesus is the best communicator in the world. "[S]o is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it" is what God says in Isaiah 55:11. Wouldn't that be wonderful: to always let your words have the effect you desire? Hebrews 4:12 says, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart," and 1 Timothy 3:16 says "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." Obviously, then, the best communication is done by God Himself.

Communications between humans are less smooth. One thing that we should always be aware of is the probability of misunderstandings. If we are always willing to listen to the others' viewpoint and then calmly state our own, we will realize that many situations are much more innocent than they appear at first glance.

Let me illustrate with two examples. Mary thinks that going out to eat is special and symbolizes close friendship. Her two best friends, however, don't realize that. They think going out to eat is just that: going to a restaurant, ordering food, and eating, but nothing special. Mary's best friends go to a restaurant without Mary. Without careful, loving explanations, this friendship is doomed.
Jane tells her friend Naomi to drop by for a sleepover "next Saturday." At the time, Naomi is distracted and remembers Jane as saying "this Saturday." Naomi is dropped off at Jane's house on the wrong day, when Jane isn't home. She believes Jane is being mean to her. Naomi doesn't know that the real date was a week later, and she never shows up. Once again, an explanation between friends is in order - but doesn't always happen.

My point: don't jump to conclusions. Our words aren't magic; people don't always know what we mean. They fill in missing information from their past experiences, which may or may not be the same as our past experiences. Don't let misunderstandings divide your friendships. Instead, realize that both you and your friends were trying to do the right thing. Somehow, you got mixed up - so laugh about it! Have a good time! Schedule another fun activity, bond once again, and stay focused on Jesus, the ultimate communicator.