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Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods
principles of which they knew little by experience. They should stand
shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart, with those who are working in
right lines.
The subject of health reform has been presented in the churches;
but the light has not been heartily received. The selfish, health-
destroying indulgences of men and women have counteracted the
influence of the message that is to prepare a people for the great day
of God. If the churches expect strength, they must live the truth which
God has given them. If the members of our churches disregard the
light on this subject, they will reap the sure result in both spiritual and
physical degeneracy. And the influence of these older church-members
will leaven those newly come to the faith. The Lord does not now work
to bring many souls into the truth, because of the church-members
who have never been converted, and those who were once converted,
but who have backslidden. What influence would these unconsecrated
members have on new converts? Would they not make of no effect the
God-given message which His people are to bear?
The Ministry of Healing, 386
Parents should live more for their children, and less for society.
Study health subjects, and put your knowledge to a practical use.
Teach your children to reason from cause to effect. Teach them that if
they desire health and happiness, they must obey the laws of nature.
Though you may not see so rapid improvement as you desire, be not
discouraged, but patiently and perseveringly continue your work.
Teach your children from the cradle to practice self-denial and
self-control. Teach them to enjoy the beauties of nature, and in useful
employments to exercise systematically, all the powers of body and
mind. Bring them up to have sound constitutions and good morals,
to have sunny dispositions and sweet tempers. Impress upon their
tender minds the truth that God does not design that we should live
for present gratification merely, but for our ultimate good. Teach them
that to yield to temptation is weak and wicked; to resist, noble and
manly. These lessons will be as seed sown in good soil, and they will
bear fruit that will make your hearts glad.