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Counsels to Writers and Editors
up the talents possible into the efforts made, and then follow up the
effort with tracts and pamphlets, with articles written in simple form,
to make the subjects brought before them distinctly stated, that the
word spoken may be repeated by the silent agent. Short, interesting
articles should be arranged in cheap style, and scattered everywhere.
They should be at hand upon every occasion where the truth is brought
before the minds of those to whom it is new and strange.
Here is a branch of work in the Lord’s vineyard that has not re-
ceived due attention. I have been shown in these very matters where
these things have been neglected much has been lost. There should be
more wise generalship manifested in doing the Lord’s word. Minds
must be arrested and held to the point, else Satan will steal away the
seed sown. There will be but a small number in comparison with the
rejectors of truth, that will receive it; but one soul is of highest value.
The value of all the world sinks into insignificance in comparison to
the value of one human soul.—
Manuscript 1, 1875
.
The Best in the Country—The people are perishing for want of
knowledge. Says the apostle, “Add to your faith virtue, and to virtue
knowledge.” After receiving the faith of the gospel, our first work
[127]
is to seek to add virtuous and pure principles, and thus cleanse the
mind and heart for the reception of true knowledge. Disease of almost
every description is pressing upon the people; yet they seem willing to
remain in ignorance of the means of relief, and the course to pursue to
avoid disease.
In the establishment of the Health Institute it was the design of God
not only that knowledge might be imparted to the comparatively few
who should visit it, but that the many might be instructed as to home
treatment. The Health Reformer [
our pioneer health journal, published
under this title from 1866 to 1878. Subsequently it was known as Good
Health.
] is the medium through which rays of light are to shine upon
the people. It should be the very best health journal in our country. It
must be adapted to the wants of the common people, ready to answer
all proper questions, and fully explain the first principles of the laws
of life, and how to obey them and preserve health. The great object
to be kept in view by the publication of such a journal should be the
good of the suffering people of God. The common people, especially
those too poor to attend the Institute, must be reached and instructed
by the Health Reformer.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:552, 553
.