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Physician an Educator
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Nowhere is such instruction as this more needed than in the
home, and nowhere will it be productive of greater good. Parents
are involved with the very foundation of habit and character. The
reformatory movement must begin in presenting to them the fact that
the principles of the law of God bear upon both physical and moral
health. Show that obedience to God’s Word is our only safeguard
against the evils that are sweeping the world to destruction. Make
plain the responsibility of parents not only for themselves but for
their children. They are giving to their children an example either of
obedience or of transgression. By their example and teaching, the
destiny of their households is decided. The children will be what
their parents make them.
If parents could trace the result of their actions and could see
how, by their example and teaching, they perpetuate and increase
the power of sin or the power of righteousness, they certainly would
make a change. Many would turn away from tradition and custom,
and accept the divine principles of life.
Power of Example
The physician who ministers in the homes of the people, watch-
ing at the bedside of the sick, relieving their distress, bringing them
back from the borders of the grave, speaking hope to the dying,
wins a place in their confidence and affection such as is granted to
few others. Not even to the minister of the gospel are committed
possibilities so great or an influence so far-reaching.
The physician’s example, no less than his or her teaching, should
be a positive power on the right side. The cause of reform calls
for men and women whose life practice is an illustration of self-
control. It is our practice of the principles we inculcate that gives
them weight. The world needs a practical demonstration of what
the grace of God can do in restoring to human beings their lost
sovereignty, giving them mastery of themselves. There is nothing
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that the world needs so much as a knowledge of the gospel’s saving
power revealed in Christlike lives.
Physicians are continually brought into contact with those who
need the strength and encouragement of a right example. Many
people are weak in moral power. They lack self-control and are