Importance of Voice Culture
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prayer is not what it should be, because of the defective voices of
those who utter it. Satan rejoices when the prayers offered to God are
almost inaudible. Let God’s people learn how to speak and pray in a
way that will properly represent the great truths they possess. Let the
testimonies borne and the prayers offered be clear and distinct. Thus
God will be glorified.
Let all make the most of the talent of speech. God calls for a higher,
more perfect ministry. He is dishonored by the imperfect utterance
of the one who by painstaking effort could become an acceptable
mouthpiece for Him. The truth is too often marred by the channel
through which it passes.
The Lord calls upon all who are connected with His service to
give attention to the cultivation of the voice, that they may utter in
an acceptable manner the great and solemn truths He has entrusted
to them. Let none mar the truth by defective utterance. Let not those
who have neglected to cultivate the talent of speech suppose that they
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are qualified to minister, for they have yet to obtain the power to
communicate.
When you speak, let every word be full and well rounded, every
sentence clear and distinct to the very last word. Many as they ap-
proach the end of a sentence lower the tone of the voice, speaking so
indistinctly that the force of the thought is destroyed. Words that are
worth speaking at all are worth speaking in a clear, distinct voice, with
emphasis and expression. But never search for words that will give
the impression that you are learned. The greater your simplicity, the
better will your words be understood.
Young men and young women, has God placed in your hearts a
desire to do service for Him? Then by all means cultivate the voice
to the utmost of your ability so that you can make plain the precious
truth to others. Do not fall into the habit of praying so indistinctly and
in such a low tone that your prayers need an interpreter. Pray simply,
but clearly and distinctly. To let the voice sink so low that it cannot be
heard is no evidence of humility.
To those who are planning to enter God’s work as ministers, I
would say: Strive with determination to be perfect in speech. Ask God
to help you to accomplish this great object. When in the congregation
you offer prayer, remember that you are addressing God, and that He
desires you to speak so that all who are present can hear and can blend