Improving Communication Skills

There are many aspects of preaching and teaching skills that can enhance our call to better communicate the Message of the Kingdom of God.  Certainly the primary element in this regard is the precious anointing of the Holy Spirit.  The anointing is like the wind in that, you cannot see it, but you see the effects of it and you know when it is absent.  There are also other more natural things that are important to growing in our speaking abilities.  Here are a few:

1.  Don't compare yourself to anyone else.  
You are most used by God when you are most you! David couldn't wear King Saul's armor and elected to take it off and face the giant, "comfortable in his own skin".

2.  Differing Styles 
Your speaking style should be an extension of your natural personality.  You can learn from others but don't try to be others. Don't seek to change your style so much as you seek to make your style more effective.  

3.  Spontaneity
Being able to be fluid and natural puts an audience at ease with your presentation.  If you are uncomfortable, the audience will be as well.  Being relaxed also makes it easier for you to read your audience and be able to make adjustments in your presentation to reach your audience more effectively.  Better preparation makes you more familiar with your teaching material and that familiarity makes it easier to be more spontaneous.  

4.  Notes and Outlines
Let your notes be your friend but don't be married to them.  The location and culture of an audience changes from day to day.  What worked in Atlanta won't necessarily work in Boston.  You have to be able to remain in contact with your senses and the Holy Spirit at all times while speaking, in order to adjust to make your point.  Jesus was a master at connecting with his audience.  

5.  "Closing the deal"
Every time you speak you are "selling" something. It might be a need for a greater devotional life.  It might be a call to greater faith, a stronger marriage or an effort to raise finances for an upcoming project.  You need to bring people to a place of "taking responsibility and ownership".