Just a Word Can Cure Confusion

Talking things out really helps at times. Yesterday was one of those times when I was able to feel connected to someone that is important to Jeff and me, our ministry, and just our lives in general. But differences in personalities often lead to misunderstandings that can affect many facets of life. Even though there may have been other things I would have liked to ask or say, I walked away from that meeting with a much lighter heart in many ways. I do hope that the other person is thinking the same.

I, for one, am a person who has great need for communication in any form. Words of affirmation are important to me as is spending time with people I care about. While life is demanding and overwhelming at times, I know for myself that if someone will tell me that it's okay, will acknowledge parts of my life that have been profitable (or harmful -- I learn so much from those encounters, even though they are not as fun!), and will present the supposition that they are "involved" - even if not directly, it helps me so much.

For others that do not need affirmation or that believes that it is a spiritual defect in my character, I must beg to differ. While I struggle constantly with not doing or ministrying for glory received of man, it is more the fear of not being "understood" that haunts me! I do not care as much if a person agrees with me as much as I am that they have completely taken the time to hear me and attempt to understand.

Another issue I struggle with is my ministry of discernment. Sometimes I really wish that God would take it from me because it oftentimes bogs me down with stark awareness of things gone awry! But, at other times, it is a priceless tool in my counseling and times when people ask for advice or direction. When I see something that is not quite right and it is a situation or person that I care deeply about, I will bow under the weight of it. God has directed me over and over again to allow those times of insight to lead me directly into intercessory prayer -- and I'm working on that.

There's something freeing about being part of a solution or to be able to offer sound counsel to someone willing to receive it. I know distinctly that it is a large part of my calling to use this particular ministry (of discernment) for God's glory -- and use it wisely and biblically.

Talking out misunderstandings, not drawing to premature conclusions, and making the effort to involve myself in the healing or "solution" process are all innate desires of my heart (spiritual and emotional).

Remember: if you're bogged down with miscommunications and there is a rift in a relationship, "just a word could cure confusion". Talk it out with grace, sincerity, and humility!