Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future (Proverbs 19:20). 

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29). 

Communication must involve listening, for if no one is listening, the act of talking would be a waste of breath. Servant leaders might wonder, “Did they hear what I said? Were they listening?” Team leaders and members all appreciate being heard and understood.

Servant leaders listen. The servant leader genuinely gives full attention to what is being said by others. As Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, she listened. Our Father in heaven promises to hear our prayers and answers them according to what is best and according to His will. Just as we are thankful that God does hear, so, too, do we appreciate someone who is a good listener — someone who is attentive and responsive when we are speaking to them. By giving close attention to the details of a conversation, confidence and trust will develop in leadership abilities.

After listening, servant leaders will then encourage and build up team members. They will encourage members in their tasks. They will praise their members on “a job well done.” Honest critique will be given, laced with graciousness. Paul says in Colossians 4:6, Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

There is a balance to team communication and a give-and-take to the sharing of thoughts and ideas. Ask God to cultivate the gifts of listening and speaking among team members. In this way, the team builds itself up to the glory of God.

For helpful articles and Bible studies about communication, see the Lutheran Woman’s Quarterly Winter 2013, “Communication: Mixed Signals.” 

Your sister in Christ,
Lucy Servant Leader