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The Ministry of Health and Healing
physical cleanliness. They need to be surrounded with an atmosphere
of helpful, uplifting Christian influence. In every city a place should
be provided where the slaves of evil habits may receive help to break
the chains that bind them. Alcohol is regarded by many as the only
solace in trouble, but this need not be if professed Christians, instead
of acting the part of the priest and Levite, would follow the example
of the good Samaritan.
In dealing with victims of intemperance we must remember
that we are not dealing with sane people but with those who for
the time being are under the power of a demon. Be patient and
forbearing. Think not of the repulsive, forbidding appearance, but of
the precious life that Christ died to redeem. As the slave of alcohol
awakens to a sense of his degradation, do all in your power to show
that you are his friend. Speak no word of censure. Let no act or
look express reproach or aversion. Very likely the poor soul curses
himself. Help him to rise. Speak words that will encourage faith.
Seek to strengthen every good trait in his character. Teach him how
to reach upward. Show him that it is possible for him to live in a
way that will win the respect of others. Help him to see the value
of the talents that God has given him but that he has neglected to
improve.
Although the will has been depraved and weakened, there is hope
for him. Christ will awaken in the heart higher impulses and holier
desires. Encourage him to lay hold of the hope set before him in
the gospel. Open the Bible before the tempted, struggling one, and
again and again read to him the promises of God. These promises
will be to him as the leaves of the tree of life. Patiently continue
your efforts until with grateful joy the trembling hand grasps the
hope of redemption through Christ.
Do Not Give Up
You must hold fast to those whom you are trying to help, or
victory will never be yours. They will be continually tempted to evil.
Again and again they will be almost overcome by the craving for
strong drink. Again and again they may fall. But do not, because of
this, cease your efforts.