310
The Adventist Home
To the active minds of children and youth the scenes pictured in
imaginary revelations of the future are realities. As revolutions are
predicted and all manner of proceedings described that break down
the barriers of law and self-restraint, many catch the spirit of these
representations. They are led to the commission of crimes even worse,
if possible, than these sensational writers depict. Through such in-
fluences as these society is becoming demoralized. The seeds of
lawlessness are sown broadcast. None need marvel that a harvest of
crime is the result
The Lure of Popular Music—I feel alarmed as I witness every-
where the frivolity of young men and young women who profess to
believe the truth. God does not seem to be in their thoughts. Their
minds are filled with nonsense. Their conversation is only empty, vain
talk. They have a keen ear for music, and Satan knows what organs to
excite to animate, engross, and charm the mind so that Christ is not
desired. The spiritual longings of the soul for divine knowledge, for a
growth in grace, are wanting.
I was shown that the youth must take a higher stand and make
the word of God the man of their counsel and their guide. Solemn
responsibilities rest upon the young, which they lightly regard. The
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introduction of music into their homes, instead of inciting to holiness
and spirituality, has been the means of diverting their minds from the
truth. Frivolous songs and the popular sheet music of the day seem
congenial to their taste. The instruments of music have taken time
which should have been devoted to prayer. Music, when not abused,
is a great blessing; but when put to a wrong use, it is a terrible curse.
It excites, but does not impart that strength and courage which the
Christian can find only at the throne of grace while humbly making
known his wants and, with strong cries and tears, pleading for heavenly
strength to be fortified against the powerful temptations of the evil one.
Satan is leading the young captive. Oh, what can I say to lead them to
break his power of infatuation! He is a skillful charmer luring them on
to perdition
Impure Thoughts Lead to Impure Actions—This is an age
when corruption is teeming everywhere. The lust of the eye and
4
The Ministry of Healing, 444, 445
.
5
Testimonies For The Church 1, 496, 497
.