216
Mind, Character, and Personality Volume 2
vain, trifling amusements.—
The Health Reformer, March, 1872
. (
My
Life Today, 150
.)
Happiness Within Reach—The world is full of dissatisfied spirits
who overlook the happiness and blessings within their reach and are
continually seeking for happiness and satisfaction that they do not
realize. They are constantly on the stretch for some expected, far-off
good greater than they possess and are ever in a state of disappoint-
ment. They cherish unbelief and ingratitude in that they overlook the
blessings right in their pathway. The common, everyday blessings
of life are unwelcome to them, as was the manna to the children of
Israel.—
Testimonies for the Church 2:640
(1871).
Amusements Excite, but React in Depression—Amusements
excite the mind, but depression is sure to follow. Useful labor and
physical exercise will have a more healthful influence upon the mind
and will strengthen the muscles, improve the circulation, and will prove
a powerful agent in the recovery of health.—
The Health Reformer,
March, 1872
. (
My Life Today, 150
.)
Seeking Happiness the Wrong Way (counsel to a young
man)—One year ago we labored for your interest. I had been shown
[647]
your dangers, and we were desirous of saving you; but we see you have
not had strength to carry out the resolutions there made. I am troubled
over the matter While in Battle Creek in June I was again shown that
you were not making any advance and that the reason you were not
is that you have not made a clean track behind you. You do not enjoy
religion. You have departed from God and righteousness. You have
been seeking happiness in the wrong way, in forbidden pleasures; and
you have not moral courage to confess and forsake your sins that you
may find mercy.—
Testimonies for the Church 2:291
(1869).
Clear Conscience and God’s Approval Versus Natural Pas-
sions and Carnal Heart—Of what good would He deprive us? He
would deprive us of the privilege of giving up to the natural passions of
the carnal heart. We cannot get angry just when we please and retain
a clear conscience and the approval of God. But are we not willing
to give this up? Will the indulgence of corrupt passions make us any
happier? It is because it will not that restrictions are laid upon us in
this respect.
It will not add to our enjoyment to get angry and cultivate a perverse
temper. It is not for our happiness to follow the leadings of the natural