*Effective Communication in Marriage* _By Archbishop Charles Agyinasare_ _Day 41 (10/02/2025)_ > *_Ephesians 4 verse 29 “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”_* Many people think that talking and communicating are the same. This is far from the truth. It is possible to speak yet fail to communicate. Clarity is key in communication. Until understanding is achieved, we may have spoken eloquently, but communication did not happen. Dr Myles Munroe (of blessed memory) defined communication as the ability to ensure that people understand not only what we say but also what we mean. It is the ability to listen to and understand others. Developing both of these aspects of communication takes a lot of time, patience and hard work. Any marriage that lacks communication is in danger of failing. There are some foundational principles which set the tone for good communication in marriage: 1. *Speak to your spouse as if you were speaking to God.* 1 Peter 4:11 “If any man speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man ministers, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ”. God is the constantly present third party in our marriages. What you would not want Him to hear must not be said to your spouse. Instead, edify and build them up through your speech. 2. *Avoid abusive or insulting language.* Ephesians 4:29, AMPC “Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favour) to those who hear it” 3. *Speak clearly to create understanding* Always speak unambiguously to avoid confusion. The mind’s construction cannot be read on the face, so say what you mean and mean what you say. As you work to develop effective communication, may you build an enjoyable and vibrant marriage! *Prayer:* _Heavenly Father, help me to communicate effectively and be a better spouse, in Jesus’ name. Amen._ *Cross References:* Colossians 4:6 1 Thessalonians 5:11 _Join my WhatsApp and Facebook broadcast channels for more insights and life-changing information:_ *WhatsApp:* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaDR57i8F2p9KGQQdf1C *Facebook:* https://m.me/j/AbYGVDBGVG4mwk4K/