Our lofty message should be expressed in the purest, loveliest, most convincing language. A Bible worker should try to develop a simple style of speech which has become her very own. The voice should naturally match the personality of the worker. Some Bible workers unconsciously adopt the expressions and mannerisms of the evangelists with whom they work. But adopting another's style of voice or speech, to the extent that it throws one's individuality out of focus, is an­noying to the listener. It reveals a self-con­sciousness which hinders poise and destroys interest in the speaker.

Simplicity in speech is most effective, but it must not be confused with a stunted speech de­velopment, either physical or scholastic. True, much of what we wish to convey to others may be said in the simplest words, but who would deny the enjoyment that is derived from the expressions of one who has learned to use a choice vocabulary? Words should be well chosen and well thought through, whether of one syllable or more.

A Bible worker may have given much atten­tion to the physical and psychological aspects of voice training, and yet her voice may not be at all pleasing to her listeners. Those who have determinedly taken themselves in hand to correct speech defects under their control, often develop the most charming speech. Once they have mastered their weaknesses, their at­tainment produces an individualistic type of speech power.

A soft, musical voice is far more effective for the Bible worker than the harsh, raucous voice which sets the listener on edge. The voice should not be weak, however: And for a Bible worker to develop a voice which is strong, yet musical, which may be heard in a larger assembly, does not suppress feminine charm. The baby-type voice will never challenge deci­sion for obedience to this message; neither will the harsh, commanding, self-sufficient tone appeal or compel for God. The Bible worker's voice must be under the constant control of the Holy Spirit, so that grace might be poured into her speech.

Importance of Correct, Pointed Speech

I. God's Messenger His Mouthpiece.

1. "God .. . making entreaty through us." 2 Cor. 5:20 (Weymouth) ; AA 398.

2. Message banishes fear to speak. Ex. 4:10; Acts 18:9-10.

II. Words—Their Spirit and Import.

1. Words and thoughts God's vehicle for truth teaching. Prov. 30:5; AA 238.

2. Words may win or destroy our influence for God. AA 423.

3. Men judge spirit of our words. DA 712, 587.

4. Words may be sharp arrows. AA 237, 238, 321, 365.

5. Being natural in speech. AA 252.

6. Soul burden gives words their proper point. AA 240, 329, 349.

III. Correct Speech Enhances Message

I. Simplicity of speech. AA 544-346.

2. Worker should cultivate correct, speech. CT 216, 217.

3. Efficiency of speech solicits respect. AA 421; 2T 615; Prov. 18 :16; 10 :20, 21.

IV. Quality and Force of the Voice.

I. Music of the human voice. AA 495, 546; DA 253.

2. Soft answer's effect. Prov. 15:1; 31 :26.

3. Force of the voice. AA 361.

4. Raucous voice detracts from the mes­sage. COL 335.

5. Developing the voice. 6T 380, 381, 383.

V. Music in Soul Winning.

Ed 167, 168; PP 594; MYP 217; 9T 34; AA 476; CT 540.

References

"The Use of the Voice," by G. B. Starr, Pacific Press.

"The Art of Personal Evangelism," by A. J. Wearner, chap. To, Review and Herald.

"Voice and Speech of the Gospel Worker," by M. E. Cady, Home Study Institute, Takoma Park, D. C.

"The Ministry of the Voice," by M. E. Cady, Washington College Press, Takoma Park, D. C.

L. C. K.