Chapter 1—A Heavenly Talent
A Supreme Blessing for Good—The power of speech is a tal-
ent that should be diligently cultivated. Of all the gifts we have re-
ceived from God, none is capable of being a greater blessing than
this. With the voice we convince and persuade, with it we offer prayer
and praise to God, and with it we tell others of the Redeemer’s love.
How important, then, that it be so trained as to be most effective for
good.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 335
.
Voice and Tongue Divine Gifts—The voice and tongue are gifts
from God, and if rightly used, they are a power for God. Words mean
very much. They may express love, devotion, praise, melody to God,
or hatred and revenge. Words reveal the sentiments of the heart. They
may be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The tongue
is a world of blessing, or a world of iniquity.—
The S.D.A. Bible
Commentary 3:1159
.
A Power in the Communication of Knowledge—We may have
knowledge, but unless we know how to use the voice correctly, our
work will be a failure. Unless we can clothe our ideas in appropriate
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language, of what avail is our education? Knowledge will be of little
advantage to us unless we cultivate the talent of speech; but it is a
wonderful power when combined with the ability to speak wise, helpful
words, and to speak them in a way that will command attention.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:380
.
Impression by Deep Feeling and Pathos—However great a
man’s knowledge, it is of no avail unless he is able to communi-
cate it to others. Let the pathos of your voice, its deep feeling, make
an impression on hearts.—
Testimonies for the Church 7:268
.
A Sacred Trust—The gift of speech is a valuable talent. Never
despise or demit this gift. Thank God for entrusting it to you. It is
a precious gift, to be sanctified, elevated, and ennobled. As a sacred
trust, the voice should be used to honor God. It should never utter
harsh, impure words or words of faultfinding. The gospel of Christ is
to be proclaimed by the voice.
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