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Testimonies for the Church Volume 3
to the best means of preserving them from decay. If we enfeeble the
body by self-gratification, by indulging the appetite, and by dressing in
accordance with health-destroying fashions, in order to be in harmony
with the world, we become enemies of God.
Brother and Sister K have not appreciated the light upon health
reform. They have not seen a place for it in connection with the third
message. Providence has been leading the people of God out from the
extravagant habits of the world, away from the indulgence of appetite
and passion, to take their stand upon the platform of self-denial and
temperance in all things. The people whom God is leading will be
peculiar. They will not be like the world. But if they follow the
leadings of God they will accomplish His purposes, and will yield
their will to His will. Christ will dwell in the heart. The temple of
God will be holy. Your body, says the apostle, is the temple of the
Holy Ghost. God does not require His children to deny themselves
to the injury of physical strength. He requires them to obey natural
law, to preserve physical health. Nature’s path is the road He marks
out, and it is broad enough for any Christian. God has, with a lavish
hand, provided us with rich and varied bounties for our sustenance and
enjoyment. But in order for us to enjoy the natural appetite, which will
preserve health and prolong life, He restricts the appetite. He says:
Beware; restrain, deny, unnatural appetite. If we create a perverted
appetite, we violate the laws of our being and assume the responsibility
of abusing our bodies and of bringing disease upon ourselves.
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The spirit and power of Elijah have been stirring hearts to reform
and directing them to the wisdom of the just. Brother and Sister K
have not been converted to the health reform, notwithstanding the
amount of evidence that God has given upon the subject. Self-denial
is essential to genuine religion. Those who have not learned to deny
themselves are destitute of vital, practical godliness. We cannot expect
anything else than that the claims of religion will come in contact
with the natural affections and worldly interests. There is work for
everyone in the vineyard of the Lord. None should be idle. Angels of
God are all astir, ascending to heaven and descending to earth again
with messages of mercy and warning. These heavenly messengers are
moving upon minds and hearts. There are men and women everywhere
whose hearts are susceptible of being inspired with the truth. If those