The Preposition

It is all about the preposition! Did you ever get talked at? Talked at implies that someone is speaking their mind in a forceful abrupt manner. The person doing the talking does not want a verbal response; it is a correction given and you should listen and change. This implies that feedback is not necessary. The person is just looking for you to change and comply with them. It is almost as if they are speaking above you as a dictator and not as an equal.

Have you ever said "I will give them a good talking to."? Talking to is not quite as harsh; however, talking to someone is still considered unfriendly and it could be a word of correction or edification given with little love and affection. The person speaking may or may not want a verbal response. They are in the driver's seat and would not like getting interrupted. Consider how a teacher talks to the class; never expecting communication unless they specifically ask a question.

To talk with someone is the way to go. This is when there is an exchange of ideas and opinions, needs and desires. It is giving and taking; an interaction that causes relationships to grow with love and respect. What we have to say counts. Talking with does not mean there is not conflict at times. Yes, it can be corrective and edifying, but there is love and respect in the relationship. No one speaks down to the other. There is relationship built out of love and kindness.

This is the kind of interaction the Lord wants from us. He wants us to talk with Him, listen to Him, and interact with Him. He wants a time where our hearts connect and our spirits become one. The Lord wants to speak with us. Have you thought about your relationship with the Lord? Do you speak with Him, to Him or at Him?

Lord today we come to talk with you. We want to share our thoughts, needs, and desires with you. We want to know your thoughts and ways! We can only know you by listening to Your response. I confess that I do not always talk with you. From now on I will change my ways to be more like You. Holy Spirit, lead and guide my conversations with You so that my ways, thoughts, and desires become like Yours. In Jesus Name we pray.