Foreword
Country Living was first published in 1946. Its counsels and warn-
ings have challenged many Seventh-day Adventists to examine care-
fully the effects of urban living on their lives and to reevaluate where
they choose to live. It has highlighted the dangers of involvement with
labor unions and other sources of party strife in the cities. At the same
time, it has helped those with a burden for city evangelism to consider
how best to be in the world but not of the world.
With the end of time approaching, this instruction is more relevant
than ever. A new generation of believers will find these counsels
opening horizons to them that they had not envisioned.
The writings of Ellen G. White repeatedly urge the advantages
of country living. As conditions in our world build toward the final
events, Seventh-day Adventists recall the Lord’s instruction about
leaving the cities, with their congestion, corruption, and conflicts. The
cities do not provide a wholesome environment for Christian families.
Yet the counsels in this booklet also warn against acting rashly.
Each person or family should study the instruction, think and pray
about it, identify and evaluate the options, and ask God to make His
leading clear.
God’s people “Desire a better country, that is, an heavenly” (
He-
brews 11:16
). No place on earth can equal that home that God is
preparing for us. Yet we may bring something of the heavenly coun-
try’s atmosphere into our homes here, especially in rural settings. Thus,
we believe that the inspired counsels set forth in this small volume
will be appreciated by every Seventh-day Adventist.
The Trustees of the
Ellen G. White Publications
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