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great work, that God may use them as His instruments. Their Maker
has claims upon them which are paramount to all others.
It is God that has given life and every physical and mental endow-
ment they possess. He has bestowed upon them capabilities for wise
improvement, that they may be entrusted with a work which will be
as enduring as eternity. In return for His great gifts He claims a due
cultivation and exercise of their intellectual and moral faculties. He
did not give them these faculties merely for their amusement, or to be
abused in working against His will and His providence, but that they
might use them to advance the knowledge of truth and holiness in the
world. He claims their gratitude, their veneration and love, for His
continued kindness and infinite mercies. He justly requires obedience
to His laws and to all wise regulations which will restrain and guard
the youth from Satan’s devices and lead them in paths of peace.
If youth could see that in complying with the laws and regula-
tions of our institutions they are only doing that which will improve
their standing in society, elevate the character, ennoble the mind, and
increase their happiness, they would not rebel against just rules and
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wholesome requirements, nor engage in creating suspicion and preju-
dice against these institutions. Our youth should have a spirit of energy
and fidelity to meet the demands upon them, and this will be a guaranty
of success. The wild, reckless character of many of the youth in this
age of the world is heartsickening. Much of the blame lies upon their
parents at home. Without the fear of God no one can be truly happy
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Testimonies for the Church 4:432-435