“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” —Colossians 4:6, KJV

ABSTRACT

This article explores the divine gift of speech as a sacred talent entrusted by God for unlocking scriptural truths, fostering understanding, and advancing His kingdom, drawing on biblical passages like Nehemiah 8:8 and Titus 2:1, alongside insights from Ellen G. White’s writings such as Christ’s Object Lessons (1900). It emphasizes clarity and sound doctrine in public ministry, gracious and edifying communication in daily life, and the home as the foundational seminary for cultivating respectful speech. Jesus Christ is presented as the ultimate model of timely, compassionate oratory, while the effective use of speech is linked to holistic stewardship of health, time, and wealth to amplify the gospel message. Ultimately, the piece underscores God’s loving trust in humanity’s potential, the personal accountability for faithful stewardship, and the outward responsibility to edify and warn others, culminating in a call to consecrate speech for eternal impact and divine approval.

THE DIVINE KEY TO SCRIPTURE

The purpose of divinely gifted speech transcends mere articulation; it is intended as a master key to unlock the profound truths stored within the Holy Scriptures. Consider the scene in Nehemiah’s time, a moment thick with spiritual hunger: the Levites didn’t just read the law; they performed a sacred duty of clarification, ensuring the message resonated not just in the ear, but in the soul. “So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.” (Nehemiah 8:8, KJV). This wasn’t a dry academic lecture; it was a Spirit-filled proclamation aimed at awakening dormant consciences and illuminating darkened minds. The emphasis on distinctness and giving the sense underscores a principle vital for every believer: clarity is paramount when handling eternal truths. The power of speech is a talent that should be diligently cultivated, as it is capable of being a great blessing, used to convince, persuade, offer prayer and praise, and share the Redeemer’s love (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 335, 1900). Further emphasizing the need for clarity and reliance on divine wisdom, the Apostle Paul instructs Timothy, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV). This “rightly dividing” implies careful, accurate, and understandable presentation. The very nature of God’s Word demands such careful handling, for “the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, KJV). Additional KJV verses supporting this principle include: “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14, KJV) and “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” (Psalm 119:130, KJV). Further insight is provided: “The work of explaining the Scriptures should be done in a way that will commend the truth to the conscience” (Gospel Workers, p. 171, 1915). Also, “The teacher of truth should make the word of God so plain that all can see the requirements of God” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 4, p. 401, 1881). Our speech becomes a true lifeline only when its unwavering purpose is not to dazzle human intellect, but to faithfully open minds and hearts to the radiant light streaming from God’s throne.

HEAVEN’S MOUTHPIECE

While clear communication of Scripture is vital, there exists a profound weight of responsibility, particularly for those called to public ministry, to ensure the content of their speech aligns perfectly with divine truth. To stand before God’s people and speak in His name is not merely an occupation; it is a sacred trust, a crucible demanding purity of motive and fidelity to doctrine. Paul’s charge to Titus cuts through any ambiguity: “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:” (Titus 2:1, KJV). This command leaves no room for personal opinion, popular theories, or philosophical wanderings when presenting God’s message. The focus must remain resolutely on “sound doctrine”—the unadulterated, health-giving truths of the everlasting gospel. This responsibility carries eternal consequences, as we are reminded: “Especially is this true of those who are called to public service. Every minister and every teacher should bear in mind that he is giving to the people a message that involves eternal interests. The truth spoken will judge them in the great day of final reckoning. And with some souls the manner of the one speaking will determine the reception or rejection of the message. Then let the word be so spoken that it will appeal to the understanding and impress the heart. Slowly, distinctly, and solemnly should it be spoken, yet with all the earnestness which its importance demands” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 336, 1900). The gravity of influencing eternal destinies demands more than casual preparation; it requires deep communion with God and a thorough grounding in His Word. The Scriptures warn sternly against deviating from this divine standard: “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;” (1 Timothy 4:1, KJV). Therefore, the minister must be vigilant, ensuring his teachings are purely biblical. Indeed, a key qualification for spiritual leadership is being “apt to teach;” (1 Timothy 3:2, KJV), implying not just the ability to communicate, but the ability to communicate sound, biblical truth accurately. Additional KJV verses include: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” (2 Timothy 4:2, KJV) and “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 1:13, KJV). Further guidance states: “The minister should be a man of prayer, that he may rightly divide the word of truth” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 2, p. 504, 1871). Also, “Those who present the truth should do so with the certainty that it is the word of God” (Gospel Workers, p. 156, 1915). Thus, a tongue trained by heaven is not necessarily loud or eloquent by worldly standards, but it is undeniably true, resonating with the authority of “Thus saith the Lord.” The call to public service is intrinsically a call to cultivate speech that is worthy of the divine message it carries, delivered with solemnity, clarity, and unwavering faithfulness.

GRACE NOTES AND SALTY TRUTHS

Moving from the pulpit to the pathway, the principles governing our speech remain steadfastly divine, extending into the fabric of our everyday interactions. In a world saturated with verbal pollution—gossip, cynicism, profanity, and deceit—the believer’s conversation is called to be a refreshing oasis, distinctly different and reflecting the character of Christ. The Apostle Paul provides the divine recipe: “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:6, KJV). This isn’t a call for sugary platitudes or insincere sweetness, but for communication imbued with divine favor (“grace”) and preserved with wisdom, purity, and a touch of provocative truth (“salt”) that makes people think. It’s speech that builds up, offers hope, and points towards heavenly solutions. This stands in stark contrast to the warning given in Ephesians: “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” (Ephesians 4:29, KJV). “Corrupt communication” encompasses anything rotten, worthless, or spiritually degrading—slander, coarse jesting, empty flattery, or faithless complaining. Peter reinforces this, linking controlled speech directly to a blessed life: “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:” (1 Peter 3:10, KJV). The tongue, though small, wields immense power for good or ill, as James vividly portrays: “Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.” (James 3:5-6, KJV). Conversely, wisdom dictates a different approach: “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24, KJV) and “The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.” (Proverbs 10:21, KJV). We are cautioned: “Our words should be words of praise and thanksgiving” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, p. 367, 1901). Also, “The talent of speech is given to us that we may speak words that will help and bless” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 7, p. 71, 1902). Therefore, let our daily conversations, whether with family, colleagues, or strangers, become sanctuaries of grace, seasoned with the preserving salt of truth, actively ministering grace and demonstrating the transformative power of Christ dwelling within.

THE HOME FIRESIDE SEMINARY

Before a believer ever steps onto a platform or engages in outreach, their most fundamental training in communication occurs within the walls of their own home. The family unit, ordained by God, serves as heaven’s primary seminary, the crucible where the habits and character, including patterns of speech, are indelibly forged. It is here, long before exposure to formal theological training, that the cadence of the soul is set. Parents bear a sacred, non-transferable responsibility to model and actively teach the principles of godly communication. The home is identified as the premier institution for this crucial development: “It is the work of parents to train their children to proper habits of speech. The very best school for this culture is the home life. From the earliest years the children should be taught to speak respectfully and lovingly to their parents and to one another. They should be taught that only words of gentleness, truth and purity must pass their lips. Let the parents themselves be daily learners in the school of Christ. Then they can by precept and example teach their children the use of ‘sound speech, that cannot be condemned.’ Titus 2:8” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 337-338, 1900). This training isn’t merely about etiquette; it’s about character formation, shaping young hearts and minds to value truthfulness, kindness, and reverence in all their expressions. The wisdom of Solomon echoes this principle of early, intentional guidance: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6, KJV). This foundational training includes fostering respect for authority, beginning with honoring parents, a command central to God’s law: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)” (Ephesians 6:1-2, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:” (Proverbs 1:8, KJV) and “A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.” (Proverbs 13:1, KJV). Further, it is noted: “Parents should be models of truthfulness, for this is the daily lesson to be impressed upon the heart of the child” (Child Guidance, p. 150, 1954). Also, “In the home the foundation is laid for the prosperity of the church” (The Adventist Home, p. 318, 1952). We are not merely raising children; we are nurturing future evangelists, teachers, pillars of the church, and citizens of heaven. Every shared meal, every family worship, every correction given in love, every bedtime prayer becomes a lesson in sacred fluency, equipping the next generation with voices ready for kingdom service.

THE MASTER ORATOR

When seeking the ultimate paradigm for the use of speech, we look unwaveringly to Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. His entire ministry serves as a living demonstration of how divinely guided communication can heal, uplift, convict, and redeem. The prophet Isaiah foretold the nature of the Messiah’s speech with stunning accuracy: “The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.” (Isaiah 50:4, KJV). Christ’s words were never frivolous, never wasted. They were precisely timed (“in season”), expertly delivered (“tongue of the learned”), and directed with profound empathy (“to him that is weary”). His mouth opened, and hope flooded into despairing hearts, truth pierced through layers of tradition, and divine authority silenced demonic powers. This redemptive power in speech is the model for our own commission. Just as He spoke life, we are commanded: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, KJV). Our words, empowered by His Spirit, become the essential conduit through which salvation’s offer reaches humanity, for, as Paul logically argues, faith comes by hearing the Word: “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” (Romans 10:13-14, KJV). This sacred task demands urgency and diligence, recognizing the fleeting nature of our opportunities, as Solomon wisely noted: “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10, KJV). Every act of service, including our speech, should be offered wholeheartedly unto God: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” (Colossians 3:23, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,” (Luke 4:18, KJV) and “And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” (Luke 4:36, KJV). We are guided: “Jesus is our example in all things. His words were always pure, kind, and true” (The Desire of Ages, p. 353, 1898). Also, “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143, 1905). Let us, therefore, strive to emulate our Master, allowing His Spirit to shape our words, making them timely, true, compassionate, and powerful—instruments of redemption in a world languishing in weariness and sin.

WHY BODILY STEWARDSHIP AMPLIFIES THE MESSAGE

Can a cracked flute produce a pure melody? Can a damaged instrument faithfully reproduce the nuances of a symphony? Similarly, the effectiveness of our God-given talent of speech is intrinsically linked to the condition of the physical instrument through which it is delivered—our bodies. The concept of holistic stewardship recognizes that physical health is not merely a personal benefit but a spiritual responsibility essential for optimal service. Paul poses a searching question with profound implications: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19, KJV). This realization shifts our perspective entirely; our bodies are not our own property to treat as we please, but sacred dwellings entrusted to us by God, intended for His habitation and glory. The following verse makes the obligation explicit: “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6:20, KJV). Glorifying God involves diligent care and adherence to His laws of health. Physical well-being is directly connected to mental and spiritual efficiency: “Health is a blessing of which few appreciate the value; yet upon it the efficiency of our mental and physical powers largely depends. Our impulses and passions have their seat in the body, and it must be kept in the best condition physically and under the best spiritual influences, in order that we may make the best use of our talents” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 346, 1900). A neglected body often leads to a clouded mind, diminished energy, and weakened vocal capacity, hindering our ability to clearly and powerfully articulate the truths of God’s Word. Paul further urges believers to present their bodies as a form of worship: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1, KJV). The apostle John echoes this connection between physical and spiritual prosperity: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 1:2, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31, KJV) and “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” (1 Corinthians 9:27, KJV). Further, it is stated: “The laws of health are to be obeyed as conscientiously as the moral law” (Counsels on Health, p. 44, 1923). Also, “A pure, healthy life is most favorable for the perfection of Christian character” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 44, 1938). Therefore, embracing God’s principles of health—proper diet, exercise, rest, fresh air, sunlight, water, and trust in divine power—is not a side issue but a vital component of preparing ourselves to be effective communicators for the Kingdom. By glorifying God in our bodies, we enhance our mental clarity, physical stamina, and vocal strength, becoming clearer, more resonant channels for His life-giving message.

WHEN WEALTH WHISPERS OR SHOUTS

Just as speech, time, and health are sacred trusts, so too are the material resources and the capacity to acquire them. God entrusts individuals with means, not for selfish hoarding or extravagant indulgence, but as another vital talent to be employed in His service, fundamentally supporting the proclamation of the gospel message which relies heavily on communication. James issues a searing indictment against those who misuse wealth, highlighting its corrupting influence and the cries of injustice that reach heaven: “Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of those who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.” (James 5:1-4, KJV). This isn’t merely an economic critique; it’s a spiritual lament over talents buried, opportunities squandered, and divine trust violated. The source and purpose of wealth are clarified: “God also entrusts men with means. He gives them power to get wealth. He waters the earth with the dews of heaven, and with the showers of refreshing rain. He gives the sunlight, which warms the earth, awakening to life the things of nature, and causing them to flourish and bear fruit. And He asks for a return of His own” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 351, 1900). Our means are not truly our own; they are God’s provision, and He requires a faithful return through tithes, offerings, and resources dedicated to advancing His kingdom. Even in abundance, the principle of careful stewardship and avoiding waste remains paramount, as demonstrated by Christ Himself after feeding the five thousand: “When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” (John 6:12, KJV). Jesus warned against the folly of prioritizing earthly riches over eternal security in the parable of the rich fool, whose life was demanded just as he planned greater storage for his wealth (Luke 12:16-21). He clearly stated the principle: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:21, KJV). Our financial priorities reveal our true allegiance. Additional KJV verses include: “Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.” (Malachi 3:8, KJV) and “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.” (Luke 6:38, KJV). It is taught: “God’s plan of systematic giving is to be faithfully carried out” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 3, p. 408, 1875). Also, “The Lord designs that the means entrusted to us shall be used in building up His kingdom” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, p. 449, 1901). Faithful stewardship of means, therefore, is inextricably linked to faithful stewardship of speech. Our financial choices either provide the necessary support to amplify the gospel message through various communication channels (literature, media, mission support) or effectively silence that message through selfish retention or wasteful spending.

BEYOND MERE WORDS

How do these interwoven concepts of stewarding speech, time, health, and means truly reflect the boundless love of God, especially when viewed through the lens of His requirements? God’s love is revealed not merely in sentiment, but profoundly in His trust and empowerment. Consider that He, the omniscient Creator, fully aware of our human frailty and propensity to fail, still chooses to bestow upon us significant gifts and responsibilities, like the potent force of speech. This act of entrustment is a radical display of confidence and a desire for intimate partnership. It signals His unwavering belief in our potential, through His grace, to participate meaningfully in His grand redemptive plan. Scripture assures us of His benevolent designs: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11, KJV). We are not random cosmic accidents, but beings purposefully crafted for significance: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, KJV). This divine investment in our potential is a testament to His love. God’s character is captured, linking His endowment with His desire for our highest development: “The Lord has endowed man with capacities for continual improvement, and with power to reach the highest standard. Through the grace of Christ he may achieve victories that are seemingly impossible. In the work of character-building there are heights for him to reach, depths for him to fathom. God and angels are watching with intense interest to see what man may become, and how well he will fulfill the purpose of his Creator” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 331, 1900). God’s love isn’t just a passive feeling; it’s an active investment. He gifts us speech, knowing we might misuse it, yet hoping we will consecrate it. He gives us time, aware we might waste it, yet inviting us to redeem it. He provides laws for health, understanding we might ignore them, yet desiring our wholeness. He grants resources, seeing the danger of covetousness, yet calling us to be faithful stewards. Consider the patience required: “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). Furthermore, God provides the means for success: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17, KJV) and “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1, KJV). It is noted: “God’s gifts are bestowed that they may be used for the advancement of His work” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 9, p. 245, 1909). Also, “The talents that Christ entrusts to His church are to be used for the salvation of souls” (The Desire of Ages, p. 821, 1898). Unlike a distant, demanding tyrant, our God demonstrates His love by inviting us, frail as we are, into co-labor with Him, equipping us with divine talents and patiently guiding us toward their intended use. His trust reflects His desire not just for us, but with us.

In light of God’s gracious entrustment of such profound talents—speech, time, health, means—what, then, is my personal, non-negotiable responsibility back to Him? The overwhelming response must be one of conscious, deliberate, and faithful stewardship rooted in accountability. Recognizing God as the ultimate Source and Owner of every gift fundamentally shifts my perspective from entitlement to responsibility. I am not the originator, but the steward; not the master, but the servant entrusted with the Master’s goods. The Scriptures make this accountability crystal clear: “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12, KJV). This future reckoning compels present faithfulness. Furthermore, the standard for stewardship is unwavering: “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2, KJV). Faithfulness isn’t measured by the quantity of talents received, but by the diligence and obedience shown in their use according to the Giver’s intent. My responsibility, therefore, involves actively cultivating these gifts, not burying them through neglect or fear. This call to active participation reflects Christ’s desire for His power to work through us: “Christ desires His followers to reveal in their lives this same Spirit working with mighty power. The very power that wrought such marvelous results through the apostle Paul is accessible to all who will seek for it as earnestly as did he. The Lord has endowed man with capacities for continual improvement…” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 331, 1900). This implies a responsibility not just to have the gift of speech, but to develop it, to refine it, to seek the Spirit’s power so it becomes truly effective. The ultimate aim must always be God’s glory: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31, KJV). This encompasses every facet of life, including how I speak, manage my time, care for my body, and utilize my resources. My life, in its entirety, should bear fruit that honors Him: “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” (John 15:8, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, KJV) and “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:17, KJV). It is stated: “Every talent is to be used to the glory of God” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 5, p. 732, 1889). Also, “We are to improve every opportunity for the service of God” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 8, p. 314, 1904). Therefore, my response to God’s generous endowment cannot be passive acceptance. It demands active engagement: honing my speech for clarity and grace, redeeming my time for His service, nurturing my body as His temple, and deploying my resources for His kingdom’s advance. My responsibility is to live as a faithful steward, constantly seeking to multiply the talents entrusted to me, solely for His honor and glory.

If God entrusts me with gifts and I bear responsibility toward Him for their use, how does this translate into my obligations toward my fellow human beings, my neighbors near and far? The principle of stewardship inherently extends outward; the gifts received are not solely for personal benefit or even just for direct return to God, but are also meant to be channels of blessing and truth to others. Our talents, particularly the powerful gift of speech, become primary tools for fulfilling our responsibility to love, serve, and enlighten those around us. We are called to proactively seek opportunities to do good: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10, KJV). This “doing good” encompasses meeting physical needs where possible, but supremely involves sharing the spiritual light we have received. Our words should be instruments of mutual upbuilding and encouragement: “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, KJV). This responsibility includes the solemn duty to share the life-saving truths of the gospel, including the warnings pertinent to the times in which we live. God held the watchman accountable for warning the wicked: “When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.” (Ezekiel 3:18, KJV). This sobering charge underscores the seriousness of using our speech (and other resources) to communicate God’s final message of mercy and judgment. Our individual purpose is powerfully connected with God’s plan for reaching others: “God gives ‘to every man his work.’ Every man has his place in the eternal plan of heaven. Every one is to work with Christ for the salvation of souls. Not more surely is the place prepared for us in the heavenly mansions than is the special place designated on earth where we are to work for God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 326-327, 1900). Our designated “work” inevitably involves interacting with and influencing our neighbors. The goal is not just individual salvation but the building up of the entire body of Christ, contributing to its growth and maturity: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:” (Ephesians 4:11-12, KJV). Additional KJV verses include: “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:” (Hebrews 10:24, KJV) and “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, KJV). It is emphasized: “Every soul is to be a light to others” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 9, p. 23, 1909). Also, “We are to be channels of light to the world” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 7, p. 13, 1902). Therefore, my responsibility toward my neighbor compels me to move beyond mere inward piety. It demands that I actively employ my speech to encourage, edify, instruct in righteousness, and courageously share the distinctive truths of the Three Angels’ Messages. It means using my time, health, and resources not just for myself, but to facilitate this outreach, demonstrating practical compassion and pointing souls to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. We are, indeed, our brother’s keeper and our sister’s encourager, tasked with reflecting God’s light into the lives of others through every talent He has bestowed.

WHAT WILL YOUR ECHO BE

So, we stand at a crossroads. The gift of speech lies before us—a sacred instrument, tuned by heaven, yet entrusted to human hands. It’s no longer a neutral faculty, simply a means of conveying information. In these last days, every word spoken, every testimony shared, every quiet conversation becomes a defining moment on the battlefield between Christ and Satan. Each utterance either helps construct the walls of the New Jerusalem in a soul or subtly reinforces the foundations of Babylon. Will our voices resonate with the clarity of Nehemiah’s Levites, distinct and sense-giving? Will they carry the solemn weight of truth, like Paul urged Titus? Will they be seasoned with grace and salt, ministering life as Colossians demands? Will our homes become incubators of pure and respectful communication, shaping the next generation’s witness? Will we emulate Christ, speaking words in season to the weary, using every God-given moment, talent, and resource with focused intensity? The choice confronts us daily. To neglect this talent—to speak carelessly, thoughtlessly, or faithlessly—is akin to burying the Master’s treasure in the earth. But to cultivate it diligently, to consecrate it wholly, to seek the Spirit’s anointing upon our lips—this is faithful stewardship. Let us commit ourselves anew to honing this divine gift, ensuring our bodies are fit temples, our time redeemed, our means invested wisely, all converging to amplify the clear, compelling, life-transforming message of salvation.

The power vested in the human voice, when yielded to God, is truly extraordinary. We’ve traversed the biblical landscape, reaffirming that speech is far more than sound—it’s a sacred trust designed for divine revelation and understanding (Nehemiah 8:8). Especially for those in public service, the charge is solemn: speak sound doctrine with clarity and earnestness (Titus 2:1; Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 336, 1900). In all interactions, our words must be characterized by grace and truth, actively edifying rather than corrupting (Colossians 4:6; Ephesians 4:29). The home stands as the crucial first school for this vital discipline (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 337-338, 1900). Christ Himself is our ultimate example, His words perfectly timed and aimed at comforting the weary (Isaiah 50:4), a model we are commissioned to follow in reaching all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This high calling necessitates holistic stewardship—caring for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 346, 1900), redeeming our God-given time (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 342, 1900), and faithfully managing His entrusted means (James 5:1-4; Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 351, 1900), avoiding waste (John 6:12). Recognizing these gifts reflects God’s profound love and trust (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 331, 1900). Our response entails deep responsibility to Him—faithful, accountable stewardship (Romans 14:12; 1 Corinthians 4:2)—and extends outward in loving service and witness to our neighbors (Galatians 6:10; Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 326-327, 1900). Let us, therefore, diligently cultivate this mighty talent, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our utterances into echoes of heaven, so that when the Master returns, we may joyfully hear those longed-for words: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matthew 25:21, KJV). Let our speech be unleashed for His glory!

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14, KJV).

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