Chapter 33—Dangers Facing Youth
Habits Determine Destiny—In childhood and youth the character
is most impressible. The power of self-control should then be acquired.
By the fireside and at the family board, influences are exerted whose
results are as enduring as eternity. More than any natural endowment,
the habits established in early years decide whether a man will be
victorious or vanquished in the battle of life. Youth is the sowing time.
It determines the character of the harvest for this life and for the life to
come.—
The Desire of Ages, 101
(1898).
Self-discipline Versus Self-indulgence—The world is given to
self-indulgence. Errors and fables abound. Satan’s snares for destroy-
ing souls are multiplied. All who would perfect holiness in the fear
of God must learn the lessons of temperance and self-control. The
appetites and passions must be held in subjection to the higher powers
of the mind. This self-discipline is essential to that mental strength
and spiritual insight which will enable us to understand and to practice
the sacred truths of God’s Word. For this reason temperance finds its
place in the work of preparation for Christ’s second coming.—
The
Desire of Ages, 101
(1898).
[309]
“Quit Yourselves Like Men, Be Strong.”—Young men should
have broad ideas, wise plans, that they may make the most of their
opportunities, catch the inspiration and courage that animated the
apostles. John says, “I have written unto you, young men, because ye
are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome
the wicked one” (
1 John 2:14
). An elevated standard is presented
before the youth, and God is inviting them to come into real service for
Him. True-hearted young men who delight to be learners in the school
of Christ can do a great work for the Master if they will only give heed
to the command of the Captain as it sounds down along the lines to our
time: “Quit you like men, be strong” (
1 Corinthians 16:13
).— ;
The
Review and Herald, June 16, 1891
. (
Messages to Young People, 24
.)
Peril of Neglecting Training and Special Preparation—Young
men who desire to enter the field as ministers, colporteurs, or can-
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