A mistake has been made by many in their religious exercises in long praying and long preaching, upon a high key, with a forced voice, in an unnatural strain and an unnatural tone. The minister has needlessly wearied himself and really distressed the people by hard, labored exercise, which is all unnecessary. Ministers should speak in a manner to reach and impress the people. The teachings of Christ were impressive and solemn; His voice was melodious. And should not we, as well as Christ, study to have melody in our voices? He had a mighty influence, for He was the Son of God. We are so far beneath Him and so far deficient, that, do the very best we can, our efforts will be poor. We cannot gain and possess the influence that He had; but why should we not educate ourselves to come just as near to the Pattern as it is possible for us to do, that we may have the greatest possible influence upon the people? Our words, our actions, our deportment, our dress, everything, should preach. Not only with our words should we speak to the people, but everything pertaining to our person should be a sermon to them, that right impressions may be made upon them, and that the truth spoken may be taken by them to their homes. Thus our faith will stand in a better light before the community. {2T 617.3}

Søster G har nogle svagheder, alligevel gør hun ikke sit bedste for sit velvære. Han lader fjenden styre hendes tanker og (640) forøger hendes vanskeligheder med en ulydighed. Hun lider af legemlige skavanker og burde vises medfølelse; men rastløshed, gnavenhed, klager, knurren og unødig sorg letter ikke hendes lidelser eller bringer hende lykke, men forværrer bare vanskelighederne.