Speak Life: Restoring Healthy Communication in How You Think, Talk, and Pray

by Brady Boyd, Wes Bleed (Narrator)

The most important conversation you'll have.

Why do so many of our conversations with one another lead to misunderstanding and hurt feelings? Brady Boyd turns to the example of Jesus Christ to show that the health of our conversations can be only as vibrant as the health of our interactions with God.

As Proverbs says, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18 niv). In Speak Life, Boyd explores:

• How to tune in to God in order to tune up your relationships
• How to listen to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in conversation
• Why healthier self-talk leads to better communication
• The biblical truths about your identity in Christ
• How to recognize and overcome the lies of the Enemy

Written by a self-proclaimed former “gunslinger” of painful words, Speak Life will help you speak words not of recklessness but of restoration to God, yourself, and those you love.

Genres: Faith, Christian, Religion

Audiobook

Published September 1, 2016

Reviews

[Julie Cave · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like the author's down-to-earth writing style. Good blend of facts, Scripture, and illustrations. The section on self-talk is valuable but very similar to Dr. Stoop's book which I read decades ago. The mid section is mainly about communication and includes some helpful material. Last section addresses prayer and prophecy which I wasn't expecting. Interesting perspective though some will question his theology about this spiritual gift. Audio version was easy to listen to.

[Russ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great reminder of the good that we can provide through the words that we use. Especially in the current environment as the words we use get shorter and colder. And the Internet with social media allows an anonymity that wasn't possible 20 years ago. It is far too easy to be callous and cavalier with our words, when they really should be being used to speak encouragement into others. God has designed us for connection with others, and connection begins with communication. Communication is so much better when it is delivered with kindness and gentleness rather than sarcasm and vitriol. It can bridge hearts of those that are divided, and bring bonds and bridges across that divide. I would say it's exactly what so many of us need right now. And it's easy to say "everyone," and mean everyone *else*, when the first examination should start with my own heart.

[Matt · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first two-thirds of this book seemed like a stream of conscious ramble. Boyd did not say anything substantive and it was difficult to tell what direction the book was going in. The last third of Speak Life (starting with the chapter on forgiveness, appropriately) redeemed Boyd. This portion unleashed a torrent of substance and direction that kept me hooked in. I would recommend Speak Life simply for that last portion alone.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read it all in one day during a mini-retreat in the mountains. I hadn't planned to take it but my wife brought it home from church recently so I grabbed it on the way out. The best chapter (for me) is on self-talk.

[Angela Wimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might read this one again

I learned so much about myself reading this book that I might have to read it again. I never realized that what we say to ourselves may be as important as what we say to others. I've got to work on my self-talk!

[Kathryn Egly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on the power of our words - how we speak to each other, to ourselves and to God!

[Dennise Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple premise, a powerful message

Get close to God, let His words be spoken through you. What a great reminder of such a necessary truth.

[Dara Branham · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was full of his life stories and life lessons and on speaking life in all situations. This was a book I started and didn't finish right away, it was more of a slow turn for me.

[Kari Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for everyone! Thanks Pastor Brady for reminding us and encouraging us to "speak life" in EVERY conversation.

[DeLaura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book.

[Bob Wylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good thoughtful book on how our words matter.

[Jessica Little · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always struggled with self talk; I can be really mean to myself. And in 2021, I beat myself up mercilessly. So, during our fast, I prayed for ways to stop beating myself up, and this book came through my list.
Brady Boyd, a pastor in Colorado Springs, outlines the four constant conversations we have: with ourselves, with God, with the devil, and with others. And he gives ways for us to speak life in all of those conversations.
It was a good reminder that we are spiritual beings living in a physical world, and that we can overcome—or be overcome—with our words.

[Emily Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect

This was a perfect read for this season of my life as a father as a husband, and as a follower of Christ.

[Noah Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

God helps us if we stay connected with him