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The Voice in Speech and Song
those who are in need. By this communication, by the utterance of
kindly words, accompanied by deeds of love, those who work for
God will find entrance to hearts, and will win others to Christ.—
The
Review and Herald, December 14, 1897
.
A Meek and Lowly Spirit—As you go to the one you suppose
to be in error, see that you speak in a meek and lowly spirit; for the
wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. The erring can
be restored in no other way than in the spirit of meekness, gentleness,
and tender love. Be careful in your manner. Avoid anything in look or
gesture, word or tone, that savors of pride or self-sufficiency. Guard
yourself against a word or look that would exalt yourself, or place your
goodness and righteousness in contrast with their failings. Beware of
the most distant approach to disdain, overbearing, or contempt. With
care avoid every appearance of anger; and though you use plainness
of speech, let there be no reproach, no railing accusation, no token of
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warmth but that of earnest love.
Above all, let there be no shadow of hate or ill will, no bitterness or
sourness of expression. Nothing but kindness and gentleness can flow
from a heart of love. Yet all these precious fruits need not hinder you
from speaking in the most serious, solemn manner, as though angels
were directing their eyes upon you, and you were acting in reference
to the coming judgment.—
Testimonies for the Church 2:52
.
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