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Christian Education
now there is one, engaged in earnest labor for the salvation of their
fellow-men. “Love one another as I have loved you,” is the command
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of Jesus. Look at his self-denial; behold what manner of love he has
bestowed upon us; and then seek to imitate the Pattern.—“Testimony”
No. 31, first published in 1882.
If facilities for manual labor were provided in connection with our
school, and students were required to devote a portion of their time
to some active employment, it would prove a safeguard against many
of the evil influences that prevail in institutions of learning. Manly,
useful occupations, substituted for frivolous and corrupting diversions,
would give legitimate scope for the exuberance of youthful life, and
would promote sobriety and stability of character. All possible effort
should be made to encourage a desire for moral and physical as well as
mental improvement. If girls were taught how to cook, especially how
to bake good bread, their education would be of far greater value. A
knowledge of useful labor would prevent, to a great extent, that sickly
sentimentalism which has been, and is still, ruining thousands. The
exercise of the muscles as well as the brain will encourage taste for
the homely duties of practical life.—“Testimony” No. 31.
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