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Counsels for the Church
truth ever given to mortals, set an example in returning to the fleshpots
of Egypt? Will those who are supported by the tithe from God’s
storehouse permit themselves by self-indulgence to poison the life-
giving current flowing through their veins? Will they disregard the
light and warnings that God has given them? The health of the body is
to be regarded as essential for growth in grace and the acquirement of
an even temper. If the stomach is not properly cared for, the formation
of an upright, moral character will be hindered. The brain and nerves
are in sympathy with the stomach. Erroneous eating and drinking
result in erroneous thinking and acting.
All are now being tested and proved. We have been baptized into
Christ, and if we will act our part by separating from everything that
would drag us down and make us what we ought not to be, there will
be given us strength to grow up into Christ, who is our living head,
and we shall see the salvation of God.
Only when we are intelligent in regard to the principles of healthful
living can we be fully aroused to see the evils resulting from improper
diet. Those who, after seeing their mistakes, have courage to change
their habits, will find that the reformatory process requires a struggle
and much perseverance; but when correct tastes are once formed, they
will realize that the use of the food which they formerly regarded as
harmless was slowly but surely laying the foundation for dyspepsia
and other diseases.
Fathers and mothers, watch unto prayer. Guard strictly against
intemperance in every form. Teach your children the principles of
true health reform. Teach them what things to avoid in order to pre-
serve health. Already the wrath of God has begun to be visited upon
the children of disobedience. What crimes, what sins, what iniqui-
tous practices, are being revealed on every hand! As a people we
are to exercise great care in guarding our children against depraved
associates.
Educate the People
Greater efforts should be put forth to educate the people in the
principles of health reform. Cooking schools should be established,
and house-to-house instruction should be given in the art of cooking
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wholesome food. Old and young should learn how to cook more