Our Health Journals
83
professed Christians. A good work could be done in preparing the way
for the introduction of the truth, if decided testimony were borne upon
this branch of the work....
I have been shown that in giving attention to this branch of the work
you remove a large amount of prejudice from many minds, that has
barred the way to their receiving the truth and reading the publications
setting forth the truth which we believe. This matter must not be passed
over as nonessential; for nearly every family needs to be stirred up on
this question, and their consciences aroused to be doers of the word of
[125]
God in practicing self-denial of appetite. When you make the people
intelligent on the question of health reform, you have prepared the way
for them to give attention to the present truth for these last days. Said
my guide, “Educate, educate, educate.” The mind must be enlightened;
for the understanding is darkened just as Satan would have it to be,
because he can find access through perverted appetite, to debase the
soul.
One reason that there is not more sincere piety and religious fervor,
is because the mind is occupied with unimportant things and there is
no time to meditate, search the Scriptures, or pray. If the consciences
can be aroused to see the errors in the preparation of the food, and
the influence upon the moral tendencies of our nature, there would be
in every family decided reforms. Intemperance in desire resulted to
our first parents in the loss of Eden. We generally find, even among
Seventh-day Adventists, that inclination; habit; delicate, unhealthful
preparations in cooking; and unhealthful habits of dress are weakening
physical, mental, and moral efficiency, and making it impossible to
overcome temptation. Now what shall we do? This subject is a sadly
neglected matter....
Our Duty to Teach Health Reform—I am pained over the ex-
isting state of things. I am informed by my guide, “All who believe
and proclaim the truth should not only practice health reform, but
teach it diligently to others.” This will be a strong agency in calling
the attention of the unbelieving to consider that if we are intelligent
upon this subject in regard to healthful diet and practices, we would be
[126]
sound on the subjects of Bible doctrine. If we backslide on this point,
we lose much influence with the outside world.
Short, Interesting Articles—When at our large gatherings, make
all the discourses highly reformative. Arouse the intellect. Bring