To speak of our religious beliefs as "the truth" may cause some to wonder it we regard ourselves the only custodians of "truth." Would not modesty dictate a different form of speech? Instead of saying, "How long have you been in the truth?" why not say say, "How long have you been a Seventh-day Adventist?" Do not be afraid of using the denominational name. Instead of "He accepted the truth," better say, "He became a Seventh-day Adventist." Otherwise we may unwittingly seem to disparage the honesty of others.
To remark in public that some brother is "out in the field," may mean absolutely nothing to those who do not think of the fact that "the field is the world." Again: look up a few useful synonyms for the word "movement." I have seen as many as a dozen repetitions of this word in one short article. But "movement" is almost meaningless to many, or at least ambiguous, when used carelessly. "Holding an effort," is another favorite expression. Is it not better to say, "a series of meetings"? Strictly speaking, I suppose it is not possible to "hold an effort."
Words which are peculiar to our people—that is, understood only by them—should be avoided. It would be well to reform our speech in these matters, as in many others that might be mentioned, and conform to the standards of good English. Some of us have acquired incorrect pronunciation when children, and it may take serious effort to change our speech; but when it comes to saying "dumb" for "climbed," and "drug" for "dragged," it looks as if a little time spent with the dictionary would be time well spent.
Are these things of small moment? Nothing is "small" in the sight of Him who formed the tiny animalcule as well and as perfectly as He made the mighty suns.
