50
Counsels on Health
childhood, physiology should occupy the first place. How few know
anything about the structure and functions of their own bodies and
of nature’s laws! Many are drifting about without knowledge, like a
ship at sea without compass or anchor; and what is more, they are not
interested to learn how to keep their bodies in a healthy condition and
prevent disease.
Self-Denial Essential
The indulgence of animal appetites has degraded and enslaved
many. Self-denial and a restraint upon the animal appetites are nec-
essary to elevate and establish an improved condition of health and
morals, and purify corrupted society. Every violation of principle in
eating and drinking blunts the perceptive faculties, making it impossi-
ble for them to appreciate or place the right value upon eternal things.
It is of the greatest importance that mankind should not be ignorant in
regard to the consequences of excess. Temperance in all things is nec-
essary to health and the development and growth of a good Christian
character.
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Those who transgress the laws of God in their physical organism
will not be less slow to violate the law of God spoken from Sinai.
Those who will not, after the light has come to them, eat and drink
from principle instead of being controlled by appetite, will not be
tenacious in regard to being governed by principle in other things. The
agitation of the subject of reform in eating and drinking will develop
character and will unerringly bring to light those who make a “god of
their bellies.”
Responsibility of Parents
Parents should arouse and in the fear of God inquire, What is truth?
A tremendous responsibility rests upon them. They should be practical
physiologists, that they may know what are and what are not correct
physical habits, and be enabled thereby to instruct their children. The
great mass are as ignorant and indifferent in regard to the physical and
moral education of their children as the animal creation. And yet they
dare assume the responsibilities of parents.