Effects of Stimulants
23
times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his
realm.”
God always honors the right. The most promising youth from
all the lands subdued by the great conqueror had been gathered at
Babylon, yet amid them all, the Hebrew captives were without a
rival. The erect form, the firm, elastic step, the fair countenance, the
undimmed senses, the untainted breath,—all were so many certificates
of good habits—insignia of the nobility with which nature honors
those who are obedient to her laws.
The history of Daniel and his companions has been recorded on the
pages of the inspired word, for the benefit of the youth of all succeeding
ages. What men have done, men may do. Did those youthful Hebrews
stand firm amid great temptations, and bear a noble testimony in favor
of true temperance?—the youth of today may bear a similar testimony.
The lesson here presented is one which we would do well to ponder.
Our danger is not from scarcity, but from abundance. We are constantly
tempted to excess. Those who would preserve their powers unimpaired
for the service of God, must observe strict temperance in the use of his
bounties, as well as total abstinence from every injurious or debasing
indulgence.
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The rising generation are surrounded with allurements calculated
to tempt the appetite. Especially in our large cities, every form of
indulgence is made easy and inviting. Those who, like Daniel, refuse
to defile themselves, will reap the reward of their temperate habits.
With their greater physical stamina and increased power of endurance,
they have a bank of deposit upon which to draw in case of emergency.
Right physical habits promote mental superiority. Intellectual
power, physical strength, and longevity depend upon immutable laws.
There is no happen-so, no chance, about this matter. Nature’s God
will not interfere to preserve men from the consequences of violating
nature’s laws. There is much sterling truth in the adage, “Every man is
the architect of his own fortune.” While parents are responsible for the
stamp of character, as well as for the education and training, of their
sons and daughters, it is still true that our position and usefulness in
the world depend, to a great degree, upon our own course of action.
Daniel and his companions enjoyed the benefits of correct training
and education in early life, but these advantages alone would not have
made them what they were. The time came when they must act for