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"Eliminate the Unnecessary"

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge pleasant, But the mouth of fools spouts foolishness." Proverbs 15:1-2

Yesterday's Discipleship Devotional dealt with Love and Respect. In fact, I encouraged husbands and wives to purchase the book and read it together. Believe me, you won't regret it. Today, I want to share the critical role communication plays in our lives, particularly in our ability to talk and listen. Communication is a two-way street that involves knowing when to speak and when to listen. Healthy and productive communication can be challenging, especially when emotions get in the way, but nonetheless rewarding. To help you maintain productivity when communicating with others, I would like you to remember and, as needed, recite to yourself and others two meaningful facts: 

#1 Practice the 80/20 Rule: 80% listening and 20% talking. There's a reason why we have two ears and only one mouth. Stephen R. Covey has been quoted as saying, "Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply." In your listening, make understanding your top priority. 

#2 Eliminate the Unnecessary: It has been said, "The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak." Speaking clearly, respectfully, and to the point is worth more than its weight in gold.

As you prepare for what life has in store for you today, please carry this Discipleship Devotional in your spirit, heart, and mind.

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