Fragments
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our schools, if rightly conducted, will largely take the place of the
gymnasium.
Teachers should give far more attention to the physical, mental,
and moral influences in our schools. Although the study of the sciences
may carry the students to high literary attainments, it does not give a
full, perfect education. When special attention is given to the thorough
development of every physical and moral power which God has given,
then students will not leave our colleges, calling themselves educated
while they are ignorant of that knowledge which they must have for
practical life, and for the fullest development of character....
There is too little zeal among the students. They should make more
earnest effort. It requires much study to know how to study. Each
student must cultivate the habit of industry. He should see that no
second-class work comes forth from his hand....
Prophecy and history should form a part of the studies in our
schools, and all who accept positions as educators, should prize more
and more the revealed will of God. They should, in simplicity, instruct
the students. They should unfold the Scriptures, and show by their own
life and character the preciousness of Bible religion and the beauty of
holiness; but never, for one moment, let the impression be left upon
any one that it would be for his profit to hide his faith and doctrines
from the unbelieving people of the world, fearing that he might not be
so highly honored if his principles were known.
It is no time to be ashamed of our faith. We are a spectacle to
the world, to angels, and to men. The whole universe is looking with
inexpressible interest to see the closing work of the great controversy
[213]
between Christ and Satan. At such a time as this, just as the great work
of judging the living is to begin, shall we allow unsanctified ambition
to take possession of the heart? What can be of any worth to us now,
except to be found loyal and true to the God of heaven? What is there
of any real value in this world, when we are on the very borders of
the eternal world? What education can we give to the students in
our schools, that is so necessary as a knowledge of “what saith the
Scripture”? ...
The cause of God needs teachers who have high moral qualities,
and can be trusted with the education of others,—men who are sound in
the faith, and have tact and patience; who walk with God, and abstain
from the very appearance of evil; who stand so closely connected with