Proper Use of the Voice
129
they are dishonoring Him, they would not cultivate habits which are
injurious.
The excuse is made, “It is my habit; it is my way, and I cannot
overcome it.” Will my brethren take heed how they use the organs of
speech in the ministration of the Word? They are to follow God’s way,
and not their own will. Christ has given them no such example in His
manner of teaching. His followers are to make strenuous efforts to
overcome their habits of long, loud speaking. This greatly injures the
melody of the human voice.
[202]
God means that those who minister in word and doctrine shall be
educators in the correct manner of teaching. They must stand before
the people as God’s representatives, showing that they appreciate the
precious gifts given them of God. They are to use, but not abuse, their
organs. They are not to make the blind, foolish excuse, “This is my
habit; I cannot overcome these defects.” They will not continue to
abuse the powers given them of God for the highest cultivation, and
by their imperfect habits, detract from the good they might do. The
Lord will help all who will determine to overcome these wrong traits
when presenting His message to the world.
This matter has been treated too much like an idle tale. It is a most
solemn consideration, and should deepen the sense of responsibility
upon every man who is a mouthpiece for God, holding forth the
word of life to the people. The ministers of God should study to
show themselves approved of God in the presentation of sacred truth,
workmen that need not to be ashamed.
The truth spoken, whether spoken in a manner to please or dis-
please, will judge the hearer in the great day of final reckoning. It is a
savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Under any circumstances
the speaker will be criticized by those who turn their ears away from
the truth, but every effort should be made to reach the people. The
minister is the teacher of sacred, solemn truth, and he should seek for
perfection in character, in address, giving as little cause as possible for
criticism. Man is honored in being a laborer together with God, and
[203]
he must work in Christ’s lines, receiving the truth in its purity from
the Word of God, and presenting it in a manner that will commend it
to the hearer.—
Manuscript 4, 1897
.
[204]
[205]
[206]
[207]