Necessity of Doing Our Best
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they could comprehend his words. There were no high-sounding words
used, to understand which it was necessary to consult a dictionary.
He illustrated the glories of the kingdom of God by the use of the
experiences and occurrences of earth. In compassionate love and
tenderness he cheered and comforted and instructed all who heard
him; for grace was poured upon his lips that he might convey to men
in the most attractive way the treasures of truth.
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This is the manner in which he would have us present his truth to
others. The power of speech is of great value, and the voice should be
cultivated for the blessing of those with whom we come in contact. I
am pained when I see how little this precious gift is appreciated. In
reading the Bible, in engaging in prayer, in bearing testimony, how
necessary is clear, distinct utterance. How much is lost in family
worship when the one offering prayer bows the face down, and speaks
in a low, feeble voice, as though just recovering from a long sickness.
But as soon as family worship is over, those who could not speak loud
enough to be heard in prayer, can speak in clear, distinct tones, and
there is no difficulty in hearing what is said. Prayer that is thus uttered
is appropriate for the closet, but not suitable for public worship; for
unless those assembled with them can hear what is said, they cannot
say Amen.
Nearly all persons can speak loud enough to be heard in ordinary
conversation, and why should not the same voice and talent be used
when they are called upon to bear testimony or offer prayer? When
speaking of heavenly and divine things, why not speak in distinct
tones, in a manner that will make it manifest that you know what you
are talking about, and are not ashamed to show your colors? Why not
pray as though you had a conscience void of offense, and could come
to the throne of grace in humility and yet with holy boldness, lifting up
holy hands without wrath and doubting? Do not bow down and cover
up your face as if there were something that you desired to conceal;
but lift up your eyes toward the heavenly sanctuary, where Christ your
Mediator stands before the Father to present your prayers as fragrant
incense, mingled with his own merit and spotless righteousness. You
are invited to come, to ask, to seek, to knock, and you are assured
that you will not come in vain. Jesus says “Ask, and it shall be given
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you: seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you;
for every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to