278
The Voice in Speech and Song
utterance. Let all take time to cultivate the voice so that God’s praise
can be sung in clear, soft tones, not with harshness and shrillness that
offend the ear. The ability to sing is the gift of God; let it be used to
His glory.—
Testimonies for the Church 9:143, 144
.
Beauty in Singing Not Everything—Many are singing beautiful
songs in the meetings, songs of what they will do, and what they mean
to do; but some do not do these things; they do not sing with the spirit
and the understanding also. So in the reading of the Word of God,
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some are not benefited, because they do not take it into their very life;
they do not practice it.—
Evangelism, 508
.
Hymns for the Occasion—Those who make singing a part of
divine worship should select hymns with music appropriate to the oc-
casion, not funeral notes, but cheerful, yet solemn, melodies. The voice
can and should be modulated, softened, and subdued.—
Evangelism,
508
.
Congregational Hymns—Another matter which should receive
attention, both at our camp meetings and elsewhere, is that of singing.
A minister should not give out hymns to be sung, until it has first been
ascertained that they are familiar to those who sing. A proper person
should be appointed to take charge of this exercise, and it should be his
duty to see that such hymns are selected as can be sung with the spirit
and with the understanding also. Singing is a part of the worship of
God, but in the bungling manner in which it is often conducted, it is no
credit to the truth, and no honor to God. There should be system and
order in this as well as every other part of the Lord’s work. Organize a
company of the best singers, whose voices can lead the congregation,
and then let all who will, unite with them. Those who sing should
make an effort to sing in harmony; they should devote some time to
practice, that they may employ this talent to the glory of God.—
The
Review and Herald, July 24, 1883
.
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Song Service for Everyone—There should be in the meetings
nothing of a theatrical nature. The singing should not be done by a
few only. All present should be encouraged to join in the song service.
There are those who have a special gift of song, and there are times
when a special message is borne by one singing alone or by several
uniting in song. But the singing is seldom to be done by a few. The
ability to sing is a talent of influence, which God desires all to cultivate
and use to His name’s glory.—
Testimonies for the Church 7:115, 116
.