Pleasing in Voice and Speech
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the emphasis placed on the words, he can make the scene presented
stand out as clearly before the mind of the listener as if it could in
reality be seen.
The ability to speak clearly and distinctly, in full, round tones, is
invaluable in any line of work. This qualification is indispensable in
those who desire to become ministers, evangelists, Bible workers, or
canvassers. Those who are planning to enter these lines should be
taught to use the voice in such a way that when they speak to people
about the truth, it will make a decided impression for good. The
truth must not be marred by being communicated through defective
utterance.—
Manual for Canvassers, 23, 24
(1902).
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Tell Them With Simplicity—Men and women are wandering in
the mist and fog of error. They want to know what is truth. Tell them,
not in high-flown language, but with the simplicity of the children of
God.—
Manual for Canvassers, 39, 40
(1902).
Words Well Chosen—Do not, because you are among unbeliev-
ers, become careless in your words; for they are taking your measure.
Study the instruction given to Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron.
They “offered strange fire before the Lord, which He commanded
them not.” Taking common fire they placed it upon their censers. “And
there went out fire from the Lord, and devoured them, and they died
before the Lord. Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the Lord
spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh Me, and
before all the people I will be glorified.”
Leviticus 10:1-3
. Canvassers
should remember that they are working with the Lord to save souls,
and that they are to bring no commonness or cheapness into His sacred
service. Let the mind be filled with pure, holy thoughts, and let the
words be well chosen. Hinder not the success of your work by uttering
light, careless words.—
Manual for Canvassers, 24
(1902).
Winning Words; Gentle, Courteous Demeanor—Those who
work for Christ are to be upright and trustworthy, firm as a rock to
principle, and at the same time kind and courteous. Courtesy is one
of the graces of the Spirit. To deal with human minds is the greatest
work ever given to man; and he who would find access to hearts must
heed the injunction, “Be pitiful, be courteous.” Love will do that which
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argument will fail to accomplish. But a moment’s petulance, a single
gruff answer, a lack of Christian politeness and courtesy in some small
matter, may result in the loss of both friends and influence.