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Chapter 34—Responsibilities of the Young
If the youth could only see how much good it is in their power to
accomplish, if they would make God their strength and wisdom, they
would no longer pursue a course of careless indifference toward Him;
they would no longer be swayed by the influence of those who are
unconsecrated. Instead of feeling that an individual responsibility
rests upon them to put forth efforts to do others good, and lead
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others to righteousness, they give themselves up to seek their own
amusement. They are useless members of society, and live as aimless
lives as do the butterflies. The young may have a knowledge of the
truth, and believe it, but not live it. Such possess a dead faith. Their
hearts are not reached so as to affect their conduct and character
in the sight of God, and they are no nearer doing His will than are
unbelievers. Their hearts do not conform to the will of God; they
are at enmity with Him. Those who are devoted to amusements,
and who love the society of pleasure seekers, have an aversion to
religious exercises. Will the Master say to these youth who profess
His name, Well done, good and faithful servants, unless they are
good and faithful?
The young are in great danger. Great evil results from their
light reading. Much time is lost which should be spent in useful
employment. Some would even deprive themselves of sleep to finish
some ridiculous love story. The world is flooded with novels of
every description. Some are not of as dangerous a character as
others. Some are immoral, low, and vulgar; others are clothed with
more refinement; but all are pernicious in their influence. Oh, that
the young would reflect upon the influence which exciting stories
have upon the mind! Can you, after such reading, open the word of
God and read the words of life with interest? Do you not find the
book of God uninteresting? The charm of that love story is upon the
mind, destroying its healthy tone, and making it impossible for you
to fix your mind upon the important, solemn truths which concern
your eternal interest. You sin against your parents in devoting to
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