Speaking in Ways Others Understand

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Doctrine and Covenants 1:24 teaches that God speaks to us in ways we can understand. This idea has always stayed with me, especially as I think about writing and communication. Just as God adapts His message for each person, writers must consider their audience carefully. A message that is clear to one person may be confusing to another if the writer doesn’t adjust their language, tone, or examples.

For instance, when I explain a complicated idea to my younger cousins, I have to use simple words, relatable examples, and even stories from daily life. I can’t use abstract language or technical terms that they wouldn’t understand. Similarly, when I write professionally or academically, I have to think about the reader’s knowledge level and expectations.

This scripture reminds me that good communication is not just about what I want to say it’s about how the other person will receive it. Writing is an act of empathy. I try to imagine the reader sitting across from me, thinking about their perspective, and asking myself: Will they understand this? Will it make sense to them?

In my personal blog and professional writing, I now aim to be intentional. I ask myself: Who is my audience? What do they need to know? How can I make this message clear and meaningful? Thinking about this before writing not only improves clarity but also strengthens the connection with my readers.

Ultimately, this principle applies beyond writing. In everyday life, whether speaking to friends, family, or colleagues, understanding your audience is essential. Good communication is a bridge, and the bridge only works if both sides understand each other.

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