168
Counsels on Health
learn how to cook. I make no mistake when I say men, for they, as
well as women, need to understand the simple, healthful preparation
of food. Their business often takes them where they cannot obtain
wholesome food. They may be called to remain days and even weeks
in families that are entirely ignorant in this respect. Then, if they have
the knowledge, they can use it to good purpose.
Investigate your habits of diet. Study from cause to effect, but do
not bear false witness against health reform by ignorantly pursuing a
course which militates against it. Do not neglect or abuse the body
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and thus unfit it to render to God that service which is His due. To my
certain knowledge, some of the most useful workers in our cause have
died through such neglect. To care for the body by providing for it
food which is relishable and strengthening, is one of the first duties
of the householder. Better by far have less expensive clothing and
furniture, than to scrimp the supply of necessary articles for the table.
Most people enjoy better health while eating two meals a day
than three; others, under their existing circumstances, may require
something to eat at suppertime; but this meal should be very light. Let
no one think himself a criterion for all—that everyone must do exactly
as he does.
Never cheat the stomach out of that which health demands, and
never abuse it by placing upon it a load which it should not bear.
Cultivate self-control. Restrain appetite; keep it under the control
of reason. Do not feel it necessary to load down your table with
unhealthful food when you have visitors. The health of your family
and the influence upon your children should be considered, as well as
the habits and tastes of your guests....
Health reform means something to us, and we must not belittle it
by narrow views and practices. We must be true to our convictions of
right. Daniel was blessed because he was steadfast in doing what he
knew to be right, and we shall be blessed if we seek to honor God with
full purpose of heart.
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