"no one say, “There is no use for me to try to pray, for others do not hear me.” Rather say, “I will make earnest efforts to overcome this God-dishonoring habit of speaking in a low, indistinct tone, and I will put myself under discipline until my voice shall be audible, even to those who are hard of hearing.” Will it not be worth disciplining yourself to be able to add interest to the service of God, and to edify the children of God? Let the voices of the followers of Christ be trained so that instead of crowding words together in a thick, indistinct way, their words will be clear, forcible, and edifying. Do not let the voice fall after each word, but keep it up so that every sentence will be full and complete. The voice of thanksgiving, praise, and rejoicing is heard in heaven. The voices of the children of God unite with the voices of the angels of heaven, as they ascribe honor and glory and praise unto God and to the Lamb for the great salvation he has provided. CE 131.1"
"So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air."
EGW's emphasis on clear and understandable speech in religious settings directly reflects the principle articulated in 1 Corinthians 14:9, which stresses the importance of speaking intelligibly so that others can understand. EGW applies this principle to prayer and other forms of religious communication.
Let every one seek to do his best. Let those who have enlisted under the banner of Prince Emmanuel grow daily in grace and efficiency. Let the teachers in our institutions endeavor to train the students in all lines of education, that they may come forth properly disciplined to bless mankind and glorify God. It is essential that they be educated to read in a clear, distinct tone. We have been pained as we have attended conference meetings, tract society meetings, and meetings of various kinds, where reports were read in an almost inaudible tone, or in a hesitating, muffled manner. One half the interest in a meeting is killed when the participants take their parts in this indifferent, spiritless fashion. They should train and discipline themselves in such a way that they may edify those who listen. Let every one connected with the missionary work qualify himself to speak in a clear, attractive way, enunciating his words in a perfect manner. The proper use of the vocal organs will bring …
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
EGW's call to do one's best and grow in grace and efficiency, particularly in the context of missionary work and education, is a direct application of the principle in 1 Corinthians 10:31, which states that everything should be done to the glory of God. EGW provides specific examples of how this principle can be applied in practical situations.