Chapter 144—Rejecting Worldly Associations
The youth should seriously consider what shall be their purpose
and life work, and lay the foundation in such a way that their habits
shall be free from taint of corruption. If they would stand in a position
where they shall influence others, they must be self-reliant. The lily on
the lake strikes its roots down deep beneath the surface of rubbish and
slime, and through its porous stem draws those properties that will aid
its development, and bring to light its spotless blossom to repose in
purity on the bosom of the lake. It refuses all that would tarnish and
mar its spotless beauty.
We may learn a lesson from the lily, and although surrounded
with influences that would tend to corrupt the morals and bring ruin
upon the soul, we may refuse to be corrupted, and place ourselves
where evil association shall not corrupt our hearts. Individually the
youth should seek for association with those who are toiling upward
with unfaltering steps. They should shun the society of those who are
absorbing every evil influence, who are inactive and without earnest
desire for attainment of a high standard of character, who cannot be
relied upon as persons who will be true to principle. Let the youth
be found in association with those who fear and love God; for these
noble, firm characters are represented by the lily that opens its pure
blossom on the bosom of the lake. They refuse to be moulded by the
influences that would demoralize, and gather to themselves only that
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which will aid the development of a pure and noble character. They are
seeking to be conformed to the divine model.—
The Youth’s Instructor,
January 5, 1893
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Our Words a Source of Help
There is too little conversation among Christians in regard to the
precious chapters in their experience. The work of God is crippled
and God is dishonored by the abuse of the talent of speech. Jealousy,
evil-surmising, and selfishness are cherished in the heart, and the
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