BECOMING A HEALTHY LEADER: Spiritual Leadership And Godly Communication

“And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, ‘Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.’” – Genesis 2:16–17

“If the iron is blunt, and one does not sharpen the edge, then more strength must be applied; but wisdom brings success.” – Ecclesiastes 10:10

In this present generation, the landscape of ministry is evolving rapidly. Sadly, the sacred calling of ministry is sometimes distorted—either by misrepresentation or poor understanding. A major reason for this breakdown in the Body of Christ is the failure of many spiritual leaders to embrace biblical communication skills. This failure has bred unnecessary suspicion, division, bitterness, and even fragmentation in the church of God.

Today, whether knowingly or unknowingly, many church leaders neglect the divine power and purpose of effective communication. As a result, confusion, misunderstanding, and leadership breakdown often emerge, thereby weakening the church’s witness to the world.

A. WHAT IS GODLY COMMUNICATION?

The word communication comes from two foundational words:

“Communicare” (Latin) – meaning to share, and
“Communis” (French) – meaning common.

Together, these roots help us understand that communication is the sharing of thoughts or information to bring about unity and agreement.

From a biblical and spiritual perspective, communication is a divine tool that helps believers build fellowship, understanding, and unity in the Body of Christ. It is the process through which a messenger (a leader or believer) conveys a message (truth, instruction, or encouragement) to others, so their hearts and actions can align with God’s will.

In simpler terms: spiritual communication is the ability to express God’s truth in a way that others can understand, receive, and act upon. It is not just about speaking but about building connection, fellowship, and shared vision among God’s people.

B. BIBLICAL FOUNDATION FOR COMMUNICATION

(See Proverbs 18:21; 1 Samuel 10:3–12, 25)

The Scriptures provide us clear models of Spirit-led communication. Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Master Communicator, used parables, teachings, and prophetic words to instruct and transform lives. Likewise, many leaders in Scripture—except Adam—succeeded in their God-given assignments largely because they communicated with clarity, conviction, and compassion.

Prophet Samuel stands out as an excellent biblical model of godly communication. Here’s why:

He declared the word of the Lord clearly (1 Sam. 7:3)
He inspired others with God’s prophetic message (1 Sam. 10:3–6)
He revealed divine mysteries to the people (1 Sam. 7:3)
He affirmed and encouraged God’s chosen leaders (1 Sam. 10:24)
He exhorted the nation towards righteousness (1 Sam. 10:24)

Samuel’s words were not empty—they carried the weight of God’s Spirit, giving direction and hope to Israel. Such Spirit-filled communication is still needed in today’s church.

C. PURPOSES OF COMMUNICATION IN MINISTRY

To Promote Unity and Oneness of Spirit
When believers communicate with one heart and one mind, unity in the Spirit is preserved (Phil. 2:2). Communication helps build a common understanding, shared language, and agreement in doctrine and practice.
To Cast Vision and Mobilize the Church
Until people clearly understand the vision of the ministry, they won’t run with it (Habakkuk 2:2). Communicating your God-given vision helps the church to rally together in purpose and direction. Without proper communication, even a divine vision may be rejected.
To Foster Peace and Harmony in the Church
Peace is not the absence of disagreement but the presence of understanding and clarity. When leaders and members learn to listen and speak with grace and truth, conflicts are resolved and the peace of God reigns (James 3:18).
To Prevent Conflict and Division
Many church crises arise from bottled-up offenses, misunderstandings, and assumptions. Spirit-led communication helps diffuse tension before it becomes rebellion or church splits. Talking things out early—prayerfully and humbly—is always better than dealing with open warfare later.
To Address Injustice and Misconduct
There are times when a congregation or leadership must speak up against moral failures, oppression, or wrong decisions—lovingly but firmly. Communication during such moments must be mature, Spirit-guided, and aimed at healing, restoration, and righteousness.

D. FORMS OF COMMUNICATION IN THE CHURCH

Written Communication
This includes letters, bulletins, notices, memos, text messages, or any documentation that expresses ideas or instructions. Church constitutions, discipleship manuals, and pastoral letters fall into this category. Many believers, like Apostle Paul, were excellent in this form.
Oral (Spoken) Communication
Preaching, teaching, counseling, and announcements involve spoken communication. This is a key tool for pastors, ministers, and workers. Words carry power, and the Holy Spirit can use your voice to convict, comfort, or instruct.
Non-Verbal Communication
Sometimes, we speak volumes without saying a word. Body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, silence, or even a smile can send powerful messages. Leaders must be sensitive to these cues—both in themselves and others.

Examples include:

Eye contact (or lack of it)
Frowns or smiles
Nods of agreement
Crossing arms in resistance
Tears, sighs, or silence

E. CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE SPIRITUAL COMMUNICATION

It is Dynamic and Growing – Spirit-led communication matures with time and experience.
It is Lifelong – From birth to death, we continue learning how to communicate better.
It is Multi-level – It works on emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and relational levels.
It is Irreversible – Once words are spoken, their impact (good or bad) cannot be undone.
It is Flexible – It can be adapted to meet the needs of different people and seasons.
It is Meant to Be Clear – God desires that His people speak plainly and truthfully (Eph. 4:25).

F. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION EXPERIENCED BY BELIEVERS

Intrapersonal Communication
This is when a person speaks within themselves—thinking, praying, reflecting, or making decisions privately. This may be inspired by the Holy Spirit or affected by circumstances. For example, Nehemiah prayed within his heart before speaking to the king (Neh. 2:4).
Interpersonal Communication
This involves dialogue between two or more people—whether in counseling, fellowship, teaching, or confrontation. Here, mutual respect and active listening are key. It’s a two-way flow of ideas.
Mass Communication
This is when information is shared with a large congregation or public audience—such as during Sunday sermons, conferences, radio broadcasts, or online streams. Mass communication in ministry must be prayerfully prepared, wisely delivered, and spiritually sensitive to meet the needs of a diverse audience.

CONCLUSION:

God is still speaking today—and He uses His servants as His mouthpiece. For the church to be healthy, growing, and united, leaders and members must learn to communicate effectively and biblically. Poor communication leads to broken relationships, confusion, and wasted vision, but Spirit-led communication builds up, brings healing, and advances the Kingdom of God.

Let every pastor, worker, and believer ask the Lord for wisdom, grace, and humility to speak with clarity, love, and divine direction—so that God’s voice will be heard through His people, and His purpose fulfilled in every local assembly.