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Testimonies for the Church Volume 4
it should be kept neat and clean. If there are no ruffles, the wearer
cannot only save something by making it herself, but she can save quite
a little sum by washing and ironing it herself. Families bind heavy
burdens upon themselves by dressing their children in accordance with
the fashion. What a waste of time! The little ones would look very
inviting in a dress without a ruffle or ornament, but kept sweet and
clean. It is such a trifle to wash and iron a dress of this style that the
labor is not felt to be a burden.
Why will our sisters rob God of the service due Him, and rob His
treasury of money which they should give to His cause, to serve the
fashions of this age? The first and best thoughts are given to dress;
time is squandered and money wasted. The culture of the mind and
heart is neglected. The character is considered of less importance
than the dress. The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit is of infinite
value, and it is the wickedest of folly to waste in frivolous pursuits our
opportunities to secure this precious adorning of the soul.
Sisters, we may do a noble work for God if we will. Woman does
not know her power. God did not intend that her capabilities should be
all absorbed in questioning: What shall I eat? what shall I drink? and
wherewithal shall I be clothed? There is a higher purpose for woman,
a grander destiny. She should develop and cultivate her powers, for
God can employ them in the great work of saving souls from eternal
ruin.
On Sunday the popular churches appear more like a theater than
a place for the worship of God. Every style of fashionable dress is
displayed there. The poor have not courage to enter those houses
of worship. The following remarks were made in my hearing by an
attendant at one of those fashionable churches: “It affords such a fine
opportunity for studying the fashions. I can see the effect of different
styles of dress; and, do you know, I gain great benefit in my business by
watching the effect of various dresses on different forms and different
complexions. Did you notice that grand trail and that lovely hat? I
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know just how they were made. I have been taking lessons all day,
which I shall put to a practical use.”
Not one word was said of Christ or of the sermon preached. How,
thought I, can Jesus regard that company, with their display of orna-
ments and extravagant dress? What dishonor is shown to the house