EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION for GREAT RELATIONSHIPS

(Developing Message Discipline)
1. What is effective communication? It is sending and receiving information with
understanding. It involves talking and listening with one purpose and one
pleasure. It is the gift of yourself. A great marriage results from great
communication.
2. Three forms of communication:
A. Verbal – Spoken words/language
B. Non-verbal – Posture, body language, eye contact, etc.
C. Para-verbal – Tone and pitch of words; the attitude of words
3. Family Circle Survey of 100 Women: What makes marriage relationships last?
59% …………………………….. Good communication
36% …………………………….. Good times
5% ………………………………..Good sex.
Barriers of Effective Communication
1. Failure to listen – Ready to fix the problem. Effective communication is a
heart thing, not a head thing.
2. Making assumptions – Making a judgement without the facts
3. Lack of sensitivity to emotions
4. Distractions/Interruptions
5. Time pressure
6. Jumping from topic to topic
7. Not acknowledging a person’s feelings, emotions, and desires
Strategies of Effective Communication
1. Make eye contact
2. Stay on the topic
3. Focus on understanding the other person and not on winning the
conversation
4. Smile or nod
5. Don’t monopolize the conversation
6. Arrange for privacy
7. Show interest

Pastor Jesse and Brenda McNeil

Pastors Jesse and Brenda McNeil are Assistant Pastors at Word Alive Ministries, Inc. in Lakeland, Florida. They are committed marriage and family pastors, advisors, and teachers, offering premarital preparation, personal advisory, post marital advisory, and wedding services to any-one who desires. Pastor Jesse is also the author of the very influential book, “Powerful Principles for Choosing a Marriage Partner.” The McNeils have been married for more than 42 years and have worked together as a dynamic, unified ministry team for over 36 years. You are sure to be blessed and in-spired by their awesome ministry.

Family Focus Ministry
Pastors Jesse & Brenda McNeil
Every person is worth understanding!
Services Offered:
Premarital Preparation, Post Marital Advisory,
Marriage Ceremonies, Seminars & Speaking Engagements
For comments or questions email us at: ffm@tampabay.rr.com
or call 863-944-2283 or 863-944-0762