A Sad Picture
[
Special Testimonies to Physicians and Helpers, Pages 87-89 (1879).
]
As the condition of the sanitarium was presented before me in
vision, an angel of God seemed to conduct me from room to room in
the different departments. The conversation I was made to hear in the
rooms of the helpers was not of a character to elevate and strengthen
mind or morals. The frivolous talk, the foolish jesting, the meaningless
laugh, fell painfully upon the ear....
I was astonished as I saw the jealousy indulged and listened to the
words of envy, the reckless talk, which made angels of God ashamed.
Words and actions and motives were recorded. And how little did these
light, superficial heads and hard hearts realize that an angel of God
stood at the door, writing down the manner in which these precious
moments were employed. God will bring to light every word and every
action. He is in every place. These messengers, although unseen, are
visitors in the bedchamber. The hidden works of darkness will be
brought to light. The thoughts, the intents and purposes of the heart,
will stand revealed. All things are naked and open to the eyes of Him
with whom we have to do.
I was conducted to a few rooms from which came the voice of
prayer. How welcome was the sound! A bright light shone upon the
face of my guide as his hand traced every word of the petition. “The
eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto
their prayers.”
1 Peter 3:12
.
Disagreeable Criticism
From still other rooms came the most disagreeable sallies of low
wit and vain talk. Some were making sport of individuals and even
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imitating the words uttered in meeting; sacred things were made the
subject of jest. Young men and young women were severely criticized;
courtship and marriage were dwelt upon in a low, disgusting manner.
There was scarcely a serious word spoken; the conversation was of
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