Monday, 13^th October, 2025

Memory Verse:  Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 (NLT)

Mrs Modupe Ehirim has been married for 34 years. She is a Marriage Educator. She writes: Communication is the heart of any successful relationship. Whether you’re newly dating or have been married for years, the way you communicate can make or break the bond you share with your partner. 

Unfortunately, many couples struggle with expressing themselves effectively, leading to misunderstandings, resentment, and emotional distance. 

The good news is that regardless of the communication pattern you were exposed to in your growing up years, improving your communication skills is possible! 

Here are some of the ways you can communicate better with your partner and foster a deeper connection:

1. Listen to Understand, Not to Respond: Often, we listen to our partners with the intent to respond rather than understand. Active listening involves focusing entirely on what your partner is saying without interrupting or thinking of your reply. By doing this, you show empathy, which can strengthen emotional bonds and make your partner feel truly heard.

2. Be Clear and Direct: Beating around the bush or using passive-aggressive language can create confusion and tension in a relationship. Using passive-aggressive language is a pattern of indirectly expressing negative feelings instead of openly addressing them. So, learn to be clear and direct about your thoughts, feelings, and needs. Use “I” statements instead of “You…” to avoid placing blame and encourage open dialogue.

3. Practice Patience: Not every conversation will be easy or comfortable. Learning to be patient with your partner, especially during difficult discussions, can make a huge difference. Give them the time and space to express themselves, and resist the urge to react impulsively. Sometimes, it’s best to take a break if things get too heated.

4. Use Non-Verbal Communication: Words aren’t the only way to communicate. Non-verbal cues such as body language, eye contact, and touch can convey affection, concern, and attentiveness. A warm hug or holding hands during a conversation can reinforce emotional connection and make your partner feel supported.

5. Check-In Regularly: Life gets busy, and it’s easy for couples to drift apart if they don’t make time to check in with each other. Schedule regular conversations to talk about how you’re feeling and what you both need. These check-ins can help prevent issues from piling up and strengthen your relationship over time.

Quote: Effective communication is an ongoing effort that requires practice, patience, and intentionality. It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. Small shifts in communication habits can lead to a deeper connection and a happier partnership – Modupe Ehirim.

Prophetic Decree:  I challenge any power responsible for communication breakdown in your marriage, in Jesus name. 

Prayer Focus 

1. Thank you Father because it is a new season in my marriage, in Jesus name.

2. I break the hold of the enemy on my marriage, in Jesus name. 

3. I receive grace to respond in love and never to react in pain, in Jesus name. 

4. I receive grace to process and filter my thoughts under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, in Jesus name.

5. I receive grace to speak a word in season and a word for the moment, always to the glory of God, in Jesus name. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:  Luke 11