James gives the simplest advice in the Bible on the subject: “Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” Most of us do the reverse. St Francis de Sales, patron of writers and journalists, added that we should speak gently, because “nothing is so strong as gentleness; nothing so gentle as real strength.”
Historical Context
A Prayer for Communication
Lord, help me listen more than I speak.
Help me hear what someone means, not just what they say.
Give me words that are honest and kind,
and the humility to say “I’m sorry” and “I was wrong.”
Where there is misunderstanding, bring clarity.
Where there is hurt, bring healing.
Amen.
In Marriage
Lord, we keep talking past each other.
Help us really hear one another,
and let love speak louder than our pride.
Amen.
With a Teenager
Lord, my child has stopped talking to me.
Show me how to listen without lecturing,
and keep the door open between us.
Amen.
Before a Hard Conversation
Holy Spirit, guard my tongue and guide my words.
Let this conversation build up, not tear down.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- Before a difficult conversation at home or work.
- In marriage counselling or a family meeting.
- Before giving a talk, writing or presenting.
Scripture Connection
“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” — Colossians 4:6
Salt preserves and adds flavour. Paul wants our words to do the same: to keep relationships healthy and make conversations better.
Related prayers
For the patron of communicators, see the St Francis de Sales Prayer and St Gabriel Prayer. For anger, the Prayer to Remove the Spirit of Anger.