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Patriarchs and Prophets
solidity of character, of keen perception and sound judgment—men
who would be an honor to God and a blessing to the world.
In the study of the sciences also we are to obtain a knowledge of
the Creator. All true science is but an interpretation of the handwriting
of God in the material world. Science brings from her research only
fresh evidences of the wisdom and power of God. Rightly understood,
both the book of nature and the written word make us acquainted with
God by teaching us something of the wise and beneficent laws through
which He works.
The student should be led to see God in all the works of creation.
Teachers should copy the example of the Great Teacher, who from
the familiar scenes of nature drew illustrations that simplified His
teachings and impressed them more deeply upon the minds of His
hearers. The birds caroling in the leafy branches, the flowers of the
valley, the lofty trees, the fruitful lands, the springing grain, the barren
soil, the setting sun gilding the heavens with its golden beams—all
served as means of instruction. He connected the visible works of the
Creator with the words of life which He spoke, that whenever these
objects should be presented to the eyes of His hearers, their thoughts
might revert to the lessons of truth He had linked with them.
The impress of Deity, manifest in the pages of revelation, is seen
upon the lofty mountains, the fruitful valleys, the broad, deep ocean.
The things of nature speak to man of his Creator’s love. He has linked
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us to Himself by unnumbered tokens in heaven and in earth. This
world is not all sorrow and misery. “God is love,” is written upon every
opening bud, upon the petals of every flower, and upon every spire
of grass. Though the curse of sin has caused the earth to bring forth
thorns and thistles, there are flowers upon the thistles and the thorns
are hidden by roses. All things in nature testify to the tender, fatherly
care of our God and to His desire to make His children happy. His
prohibitions and injunctions are not intended merely to display His
authority, but in all that He does He has the well-being of His children
in view. He does not require them to give up anything that it would be
for their best interest to retain.
The opinion which prevails in some classes of society, that religion
is not conducive to health or to happiness in this life, is one of the
most mischievous of errors. The Scripture says: “The fear of the Lord
tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied.”
Proverbs 19:23
.