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Section 14—Teaching Health Principles
299
what our duty is, and then do it. We are not to be dependent and
helpless, trusting in human beings.—
Manuscript 85, 1902.
Incentives to Activity
Some may say, “If the Lord is coming soon, what need is there
to establish schools, sanitariums, and food factories? What need is
there for our young people to learn trades?”
It is the Lord’s design that we shall constantly improve the talents
He has given us. We cannot do this unless we use them. The prospect
of Christ’s soon coming should not lead us to idleness. Instead, it
should lead us to do all we possibly can to bless and benefit humanity.
No idler is guiltless in the Lord’s sight.
Bible religion never makes men idlers. We believe that Christ’s
coming is near. Then let everyone make the most of his God-given
time in seeking to prepare himself and others for this great event.
Teach the importance of life’s duties to those who are wasting their
opportunities.
Work for the intemperate man and the tobacco user, telling them
that no drunkard shall inherit the kingdom of God and that “there
shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Show them the
good they could do with the money they now spend for that which
does them only harm.—
Letter 25, 1902
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Tolerance for Others’ Opinions
We must remember that there are a great many different minds in
the world, and we cannot expect everyone to see exactly as we do in
regard to all questions of diet. Minds do not run in exactly the same
channel. I do not eat butter, but there are members of my family
who do. It is not placed on my table; but I make no disturbance
because some members of my family choose to eat it occasionally.
Many of our conscientious brethren have butter on their tables, and I
feel under no obligation to force them to do otherwise. These things
should never be allowed to cause disturbance among brethren. I
cannot see the need of butter where there is an abundance of fruit
and of sterilized cream. Those who love and serve God should be
allowed to follow their own convictions. We may not feel justified