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The Voice in Speech and Song
The Cause of Nine-Tenths of Church Difficulties—Unchristlike
speech lies at the foundation of nine-tenths of all the difficulties that
exist in the church. Satan’s agents are industriously trying to get
professed Christians to speak unadvisedly. When they succeed, Sa-
tan exults, because God’s followers have hurt their influence.—
The
Review and Herald, November 24, 1904
.
Disparaging Remarks—Many today feel at liberty to use the
talent of speech recklessly, without thinking of the influence their
words will have upon others. The Lord sends His messages by whom
He will, and those who make disparaging remarks of the messengers
and the message need to remember that they would speak in the same
way of Christ if He should come to them as He came to the Jews, with
a message that did not suit their unrenewed hearts. Those who use
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their speech to mimic the one who is speaking the words of God are
charged with having done this to Christ; for it is done to Him in the
person of His saints.—
The Review and Herald, January 18, 1898
.
Influence of Angry Words—Oh, that those who are proclaim-
ing the most solemn message ever given to the world would realize
how greatly their influence is weakened when they are suspicious of
their brethren, when they allow angry words to pass their lips! The
displeasure of God rests upon everyone who speaks harsh, unkind
words.—
The Review and Herald, July 21, 1903
.
Confidence in Brethren—By sowing evil in the minds of the
weak, who have no vital connection with God, by telling them how
little confidence you have in others, you tear away the hold their
brethren have on them, because you destroy their confidence in them.
But do not allow the enemy so to use your tongue; for at the day of
final reckoning, God will call you to give an account of your words.
Do not exert an influence that will break the hold of any trembling
soul from God. Even though you are not treated as you think you
should be, do not allow the root of bitterness to spring up; for thereby
many will be defiled. By your words you may cause others to become
suspicious.—
The Review and Herald, August 24, 1897
.
Ruin of the Weak in the Faith—Do not allow the devil to use
your tongue and your voice to ruin those weak in the faith; for at the
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day of final reckoning God will call upon you to give an account of
your work.—
The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 3:1161
.