72
Gospel Workers 1915
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
are qualified to minister; for they have yet to obtain the power to
communicate.
Distinct Enunciation
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-
[89]
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 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
so low a 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 service 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 their supplications with yours. A prayer uttered so hurriedly
that the words are jumbled together, is no honor to God and does the
hearers no good. Let ministers and all who offer public prayer learn
to pray in such a way that God will be glorified and the hearers will
be blessed. Let them speak slowly and distinctly, and in tones loud
enough to be heard by all, so that the people may unite in saying
[90]
Amen.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:380-383
.