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Physician, an Educator
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matory movement must begin in presenting to them the principles
of the law of God as bearing upon both physical and moral health.
Show that obedience to God’s word is our only safeguard against
the evils that are sweeping the world to destruction. Make plain
the responsibility of parents, not only for themselves, but for their
children. They are giving to their children an example either of
obedience or of transgression. By their example and teaching, the
destiny of their households is decided. The children will be what
their parents make them.
If parents could be led to trace the result of their action, and
could see how, by their example and teaching, they perpetuate and
increase the power of sin or the power of righteousness, a change
would certainly be made. Many would turn away from tradition and
custom, and accept the divine principles of life.
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Power of Example
The physician who ministers in the homes of the people, watch-
ing at the bedside of the sick, relieving their distress, bringing them
back from the borders of the grave, speaking hope to the dying,
wins a place in their confidence and affection, such as is granted to
few others. Not even to the minister of the gospel are committed
possibilities so great or an influence so far-reaching.
The physician’s example, no less than his teaching, should be a
positive power on the right side. The cause of reform calls for men
and women whose life practice is an illustration of self-control. It is
our practice of the principles we inculcate that gives them weight.
The world needs a practical demonstration of what the grace of
God can do in restoring to human beings their lost kingship, giving
them mastery of themselves. There is nothing that the world needs
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so much as a knowledge of the gospel’s saving power revealed in
Christlike lives.
The physician is continually brought into contact with those who
need the strength and encouragement of a right example. Many are
weak in moral power. They lack self-control and are easily overcome
by temptation. The physician can help these souls only as he reveals
in his own life a strength of principle that enables him to triumph
over every injurious habit and defiling lust. In his life must be seen