Words to the Youth
249
necessities; and by keeping an account of their expenses they will
learn, as they could learn in no other way, the value and the use of
money.
This training will help them to distinguish true economy from
niggardliness on the one hand and prodigality on the other. Rightly
directed, it will encourage habits of benevolence. It will aid the youth
in learning to give, not from the mere impulse of the moment, as their
feelings are stirred, but regularly and systematically.—
Education 238,
239
.
Following Satan’s Suggestions
How the enemy has wrought to place temporal things above spir-
itual! Many families who have but little to spare for God’s cause,
will yet spend money freely to purchase rich furniture or fashionable
clothing. How much is spent for the table, and often for that which is
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only a hurtful indulgence; how much for presents that benefit no one!
Many spend considerable sums for photographs to give to their
friends. Picture taking is carried to extravagant lengths, and encourages
a species of idolatry. How much more pleasing to God it would be if
all this means were invested in publications which would direct souls
to Christ and the precious truths for this time! The money wasted on
needless things would supply many a table with reading matter on
present truth, which would prove a savor of life unto life.
Satan’s suggestions are carried out in many, many things. Our
birthday anniversaries and Christmas and Thanksgiving festivals are
too often devoted to selfish gratification, when the mind should be
directed to the mercy and loving-kindness of God. God is displeased
that His goodness, His constant care, His unceasing love, are not
brought to mind on these anniversary occasions.
If all the money that is used extravagantly, for needless things,
were placed in the treasury of God, we should see men and women
and youth giving themselves to Jesus, and doing their part to cooperate
with Christ and angels. The richest blessing of God would come into
our churches, and many souls would be converted to the truth.—
The
Review and Herald, December 23, 1890
.