Laws Governing the Mind
43
of another Those who make it their object to so educate their pupils
that they may see and feel that the power lies in themselves to make
men and women of firm principle, qualified for any position in life,
are the most useful and permanently successful teachers. Their work
may not show to the very best advantage to careless observers, and
their labors may not be valued as highly as are those of the teacher
who holds the minds and wills of his scholars by absolute authority;
but the future lives of the pupils will show the fruits of the better plan
of education.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:134
(1872).
Uncontrolled Mind Becomes Weak—The mental powers should
be developed to the utmost; they should be strengthened and ennobled
by dwelling upon spiritual truths. If the mind is allowed to run almost
entirely upon trifling things and the common business of everyday life,
it will, in accordance with one of its unvarying laws, become weak
[422]
and frivolous, and deficient in spiritual power.—
Testimonies for the
Church 5:272
(1885).
Prejudice Bars Enlightenment—Those who allow prejudice to
bar the mind against the reception of truth cannot receive the divine
enlightenment. Yet, when a view of Scripture is presented, many
do not ask, Is it true—in harmony with God’s word? but, By whom
is it advocated? And unless it comes through the very channel that
pleases them, they do not accept it. So thoroughly satisfied are they
with their own ideas that they will not examine the Scripture evidence
with a desire to learn, but refuse to be interested, merely because of
their prejudices.—
Gospel Workers, 125, 126
(1893). (
Testimonies to
Ministers and Gospel Workers, 105, 106
.)
Happiness Depends Upon Perfect Accord With God’s Laws—
The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the
happiness of all created beings depended upon their perfect accord
with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all His
creatures the service of love—homage that springs from an intelligent
appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced alle-
giance, and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him
voluntary service.—
The Great Controversy, 493
(1888).
[423]