158
Testimonies for the Church Volume 6
together with the teachers. All should counsel together as to the very
best methods of carrying on the work.
Time is too short now to accomplish that which might have been
done in past generations. But even in these last days we can do much
to correct the existing evils in the education of youth. And because
time is short, we should be in earnest and work zealously to give the
[180]
young an education consistent with our faith. We are reformers. We
desire that our children should study to the best advantage. In order to
do this, employment should be given them which will call into exercise
the muscles. Daily, systematic labor should constitute a part of the
education of youth even at this late period. Much can now be gained
in this way. In following this plan the students will realize elasticity of
spirit and vigor of thought, and in a given time can accomplish more
mental labor than they could by study alone. And thus they can leave
school with constitutions unimpaired and with strength and courage
to persevere in any position where the providence of God may place
them.
* * * * *
The exercise that teaches the hand to be useful and trains the
young to bear their share of life’s burdens, gives physical strength and
develops every faculty. All should find something to do that will be
beneficial to themselves and helpful to others. God appointed work as
a blessing, and only the diligent worker finds the true glory and joy of
life.
* * * * *
Brain and muscle must be taxed proportionately if health and vigor
are to be maintained. The youth can then bring to the study of the
word of God healthy perception and well-balanced nerves. They will
have wholesome thoughts and can retain the precious things that are
brought from the word. They will digest its truths and as a result will
have brain power to discern what is truth. Then, as occasion demands,
they can give to every man that asks a reason of the hope that is in
them with meekness and fear.
[181]