Beech Tree News Network

Dangers occur when men stop (or never begin) speaking with one another. Often misunderstandings are calmed when the parties involved speak with each other. When men, who are otherwise good men; productive, who have great knowledge and abilities, do not communicate as they should, bad things can happen. Perhaps work that could be otherwise accomplished is slowed, or neglected altogether because these men refuse to communicate, share ideas, and help each other.

    When we think about communication, we see that there is a great need for communication in a family. Husbands and wives are said to be “one” in the sight of God (Gen. 2:24; Matt. 19:6; Eph. 5:31). It seems to me like folks who are “one” would want to be in communication with one another. Yet, when a husband and wife do not communicate, there are problems! Sadly, in many marriages, spouses are not talking with each other, and the situation is just asking for difficulties!

    The Bible says husbands must treat their wives as they treat their own bodies (Eph. 5:28-29). A man would go to the doctor and demand treatment if he found that the various members of his body were not “communicating” or working as they once did. How much more ought there be a sense of urgency when two people living under the same roof refuse to communicate?

    Further, in Ephesians 6:4, we read, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Obviously, there are responsibilities a father has to his children. This includes communication with them as he tries to raise them correctly. Mother must also take the initiative in teaching and training her young ones (Prov. 22:6; II Tim. 1:5; Titus 2:4).

    Yet, a sad trend among parents is to allow children “raise themselves” as it were. Children are growing up with no discipline, no instruction on how to do good, and certainly no correction for their wrongs! Solomon said, “a child left to himself brings his mother to shame” (Prov. 29:15). Sadly, this is exactly what is happening in households across this nation, including households where father and mother are claiming to be Christians!

    What has happened to the communication among parents and children? Are we the kind of people who just “assume” that “junior” knows right from wrong simply because he is living in our house? Are we the kind of people who are positive that “sweet little Sally” will never do anything wrong? Why think this way if we have never taught “Sally” right from wrong? Our children need parents who spend time in communication with one another and in communication with them. In the long ago, God encouraged such communication, for He demanded that fathers take their children and teach them God’s will (Deut. 6:7, 9). This kind of diligence is not seen in the family whose means of communication is “huh?” “what?” “shut-up!” “move out of my way,” and various grunts. As we pointed out from Ephesians and other places, God still expects fathers and mothers to be conscientious of their duties as parents and bring their children up right. May parents ever feel that great responsibility, whether the children are 2, 12, or 22, etc.

    Could it be possible that you are guilty of such behavior? Think about it: God is our maker; the One who rules and controls this life. Shouldn’t we strive to make ourselves as useful as possible for the Master’s service (Rom. 12:1-2)? Don’t allow another opportunity pass without speaking, communicating, listening, and discussing matters with one another.

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program on 1570 AM at 8:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167