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Schools of the Prophets
383
character, of clear understanding and sound judgment—people who
would be a blessing to the world.
All true science is an interpretation of God’s handwriting in the
material world. Scientific research brings only fresh evidences of
the wisdom and power of God. Rightly understood, both the book
of nature and the written Word make us acquainted with God by
teaching us something of the wise and beneficial laws through which
He works.
Teachers should copy the example of the Great Teacher, who
drew illustrations that simplified His teachings and impressed them
more deeply on the minds of His hearers. The birds in the leafy
branches, the flowers of the valley, the lofty trees, the fruitful lands,
the growing grain, the barren soil, the setting sun gilding the skies
with golden beams—all illustrated His lessons. He connected the
visible works of the Creator with the words of life that He spoke.
Religion Promotes Health and Happiness
The things of nature speak to us of the Creator’s love. This
world is not all sorrow and misery. “God is love” is written on every
opening bud, on the petals of every flower, and on every blade of
grass. There are flowers on the thistles, and thorns are hidden by
roses. Everything in nature testifies to God’s desire to make His
children happy. When He forbids something, it is not just to display
His authority—He has the well-being of His children in view. He
does not require them to give up anything that they would be better
off keeping.
The opinion that religion does not promote health or happiness is
one of the most harmful errors. Scripture says: “The fear of the Lord
[303]
leads to life, and he who has it will abide in satisfaction.” (
Proverbs
19:23
). The words of wisdom “are life to those who find them, and
health to all their flesh.” (
Proverbs 4:22
).
True religion brings us into harmony with the laws of God, phys-
ical, mental, and moral. It teaches self-control, serenity, temperance.
Religion enhances the mind, refines the taste, and sanctifies the
judgment. Faith in God’s love and overruling guidance lightens the
burdens of anxiety and care. It fills the heart with joy and content-
ment, whether one’s lot in life is high or low. Religion tends to