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Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods
This is an illustration of the way in which we are to work. We
must offer men something better than that which they possess, even the
peace of Christ, which passeth all understanding. We must tell them
of God’s holy law, the transcript of His character, and an expression of
that which He wishes them to become....
Of all people in the world, reformers should be the most unselfish,
the most kind, the most courteous. In their lives should be seen the
true goodness of unselfish deeds. The worker who manifests a lack of
courtesy, who shows impatience at the ignorance or waywardness of
others, who speaks hastily or acts thoughtlessly, may close the door to
hearts so that he can never reach them.
Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 119-120
Do not catch hold of isolated ideas and make them a test, criticising
others whose practice may not agree with your opinion; but study the
subject broadly and deeply, and seek to bring your own ideas and
practices into perfect harmony with the principles of true Christian
temperance.
There are many who try to correct the lives of others by attacking
what they regard as wrong habits. They go to those whom they think
in error and point out their defects, but do not seek to direct the mind
to true principles. Such a course often comes far short of securing
the desired results. When we make it evident that we are trying to
correct others, we too often arouse their combativeness, and do more
harm than good. And there is the danger to the reprover also. He who
takes it upon himself to correct others, is likely to cultivate a habit of
fault-finding, and soon his whole interest will be in picking flaws and
finding defects. Do not watch others, to pick at their faults, or expose
their errors. Educate them to better habits by the power of your own
example.
Let it ever be kept before the mind that the great object of hygienic
reform is to secure the highest possible development of mind and soul
and body. All the laws of nature—which are the laws of God—are
designed for our good. Obedience to them will promote our happiness
in this life, and will aid us in a preparation for the life to come.