More Than A Feeling | May 31, 2026

Healthy Relationships Require Communication – Chip Henderson

Key Passage: Numbers 10:1–10

OPENING QUESTION

What is the funniest misunderstanding or communication breakdown you have ever experienced?

GROW

Good communication keeps people unified, informed, and moving in the same direction. It helps resolve conflict, builds trust, and creates confidence because people know where they stand and what is expected of them.

In Numbers 10, God instructed Moses to make two silver trumpets. Different trumpet blasts communicated different messages. Some signals gathered the whole congregation. Others called only the leaders. Some signaled movement. Others signaled celebration or preparation for battle. The communication was clear, targeted, and purposeful.

Just as Israel needed clear communication to function well, our relationships depend on communication that is clear, concise, honest, and timely. Communication is a skill that affects every area of life, including our families, friendships, workplaces, and church community.

  • Why do you think God gave such specific instructions for communication in Numbers 10?

  • Which aspect of communication do you most need to grow in: clarity, conciseness, honesty, or timing?

  • How can assumptions and unclear expectations create problems in relationships?

PRAY

Communication begins in the heart. Before we learn to speak well, we need God to shape our attitudes, motives, and responses. Prayer helps us slow down, listen, and become more aware of how our words affect others.

James 1:19 reminds us to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Healthy communication starts with a willingness to listen.

  • When are you most tempted to speak before fully listening?

  • What fears or insecurities sometimes keep you from communicating honestly?

  • How can you invite God to help you become a better listener this week?

CONNECT

One of our deepest relational needs is to feel heard and understood. Yet many conversations become focused on being understood rather than understanding others.

Healthy relationships grow when people listen carefully, clarify expectations, and communicate truthfully with one another. Trust grows where communication is honest and consistent.

  • When do you feel most heard and understood by others?

  • Why is listening often more difficult than speaking?

  • What is one relationship in your life that could benefit from better communication right now?

SHARE

Our words have tremendous influence. They can encourage, guide, heal, and point people toward Jesus. Communication is not simply about sharing information. It is an opportunity to serve others and reflect the character of Christ.

When we communicate clearly, honestly, and graciously, we help people move forward in unity, love, and purpose.

  • Who in your life needs encouragement or a timely conversation this week?

  • How can your words help build trust and strengthen someone else’s faith?

  • What is one opportunity this week to use your voice to bring clarity, encouragement, or truth to someone?

NEXT STEP

Choose one action for this week in one of the Be The Church rhythms:

Grow: Read James 1:19 and Proverbs 18:13 each day this week. Ask God to show you where you need to grow as a communicator.

Pray: Spend time asking God to help you listen first and speak with wisdom.

Connect: Have one conversation where your goal is to understand before being understood.

Share: Encourage someone this week with a truthful, timely, and life-giving word.

PRAYER

Close by thanking God for the gift of communication. Ask Him to help you speak clearly, listen carefully, tell the truth in love, and communicate at the right time. Pray that your words would build trust, strengthen relationships, and reflect the heart of Jesus.