Ellen Chat Conversation

Being vehement or allowing oneself to feel and act with excessive intensity has a direct and detrimental impact on physical health. When individuals allow themselves to feel too intensely or raise their voices to a high pitch, they overtax both their physical and mental powers (20MR 133.3). This high-pressure approach inevitably leads to a corresponding period of depression and weariness as the body reacts to the strain (20MR 133.3). Furthermore, giving way to violent emotions is physically dangerous and can even result in death, as such outbursts of rage and passion contaminate the "sacred temple" of the body (3MR 322.2) (2MCP 519.3).

The habit of vehemence also degrades one's character and social interactions, often manifesting as a peevish, fault-finding spirit (T18 104.2). A person who does not subdue this spirit becomes easily offended and ready to resent any perceived slight, whether in public or private life (T18 104.2). This lack of self-control is compared to a "lion" that must be dislodged through strength of principle rather than merely being watched or suppressed on the outside (T18 104.2).

In the context of communication and ministry, vehemence and excitable speech actually lessen the effectiveness of the message. Excessive gesticulation and intense preaching can annoy listeners and decrease their interest rather than drawing them to the truth (20MR 133.3). While some may feel a lack of "freedom" when trying to speak calmly, this feeling is often merely unsanctified excitement that should be abandoned (VSS 185.2). True power in labor is found in temperance, as the indulgence of passion beclouds the mind and prevents words from being vitalized by the Spirit of God (T25a 41.1).

Finally, vehemence is often linked to a stubborn adherence to one's own opinions and a rejection of divine counsel. Those who are determined to advocate their own ideas often become self-deceived, making the workings of God's Spirit of "none effect" through their sophistry. This spirit of self-confidence leads individuals to pursue their own will blindly, eventually causing them to view the testimonies of God as merely human opinions if those testimonies cross their preconceived ideas (2MR 87.2) (3SM 68.2).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the importance of self-control and temperance?How does the cultivation of a calm spirit affect physical health?What counsel did she give to speakers and ministers regarding their delivery and voice culture?

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