When I first saw the title of this book, I had to get my hands on it so to share it with you all! The book covers a discipline that I (and many others, might I add) really need to work on. The book opens with a (tragic) miracle story in which a marriage is saved from divorce because one of the spouses bites their tongue.
I think that we often forget the weight of our words. The focus here in Sedler’s book is on conversations. Conversations call for both speaking up and being silent, not just talking. Furthermore, conversations — if they are worthwhile — revolve around question and answers, not just one person babbling the whole time. When is the last time that you let someone else ask the questions and you were silent? And you just listened.
As the title alludes to, Sedler’s very short book does not talk just about being silent. There is also a time to lead the conversation. There is a time to exhort others and share your story.
Yes, there is no doubt that Sedler could have been much more exhaustive (he writes as though he chooses to only graze the surface of the discipline). But this book does get the conversation about conversations started, and that is most important of all. If you are someone who either hates or loves to talk to others (and just about everyone should have nodded there), than this is a book for you. It doesn’t matter what role you have in life, you have got to understand your role as you communicate with others.
I’d recommend this book to, honestly, everybody. That was not a lazy answer on my part; this text is not just for head pastors but it is also for those involved in church small groups, even ushers on Sunday mornings.
Back cover reads:
All of us find ourselves in situations where we don’t know if we should bite our tongue or speak our minds. When is silence golden? When to speak out? In this practical insightful book, communication experts and former pastor Dr. Michael D. Sedler offers real-world guidelines for all types of conversations — and all types of relationships. He also explores:
– The cost and purpose of silence.
-Why to check motives when talking to friends, family and authorities.
– How to ask good questions.
– Ways to deal with anger and resentment.
– How to overcome pressure to remain silent.
Stop wondering what you should or shouldn’t say! This must-have book gives you the keys to healthy, effective communication in any situation. Improve your skills and build better communication today, at home — everywhere.
Pick up your own copy here!
*This text was free from Chosen Books (A division of Baker Publishing Group) with my promise to post an unbiased review.
