Communication
165
What the Words Reveal—You cannot be too careful of what you
say, for the words you utter show what power is controlling your mind
and heart. If Christ rules in your heart, your words will reveal the
purity, beauty, and fragrance of a character molded and fashioned by
His will. But since his fall, Satan has been an accuser of the brethren,
[580]
and you must be on guard lest you reveal the same spirit.—Lt 69,
1896.
Repetition Necessary—Do not think, when you have gone over
a subject once, that your hearers will retain in their minds all that
you have presented. There is danger of passing too rapidly from
point to point. Give short lessons, in plain, simple language, and
let them be often repeated. Short sermons will be remembered far
better than long ones. Our speakers should remember that the subjects
they are presenting may be new to some of their hearers; therefore
the principal points should be gone over again and again.—
Gospel
Workers, 168
(1915).
Nervous, Hurried Manner Impairs Communication—Ministers
and teachers should give special attention to the cultivation of the voice.
They should learn to speak, not in a nervous, hurried manner, but with
slow, distinct, clear utterance, preserving the music of the voice.
The Saviour’s voice was as music to the ears of those who had
been accustomed to the monotonous, spiritless preaching of the scribes
and Pharisees. He spoke slowly and impressively, emphasizing those
words to which He wished His hearers to give special heed. Old
and young, ignorant and learned, could catch the full meaning of His
words. This would have been impossible had He spoken in a hurried
way and rushed sentence upon sentence without a pause. The people
were very attentive to Him, and it was said of Him that He spoke
not as the scribes and Pharisees; for His word was as of one who
had authority.—
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 239,
240
(1913).
Clarity of Expression and Proper Emphasis—By earnest prayer
and diligent effort we are to obtain a fitness for speaking. This fitness
includes uttering every syllable clearly, placing the force and emphasis
where it belongs. Speak slowly. Many speak rapidly, hurrying one
[581]
word after another so fast that the effect of what they say is lost. Into
what you say put the spirit and life of Christ.—
Counsels to Parents,
Teachers, and Students, 254, 255
(1913).