There is a message regarding health reform
to be borne in every church. There is a work to be done in every
school. Neither principal nor teachers should be entrusted with
the education of the youth until they have a practical knowledge
of this subject. Some have felt at liberty to criticize and question
and find fault with health reform 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?
Let all examine their own practices to
see if they are not indulging in that which is a positive injury
to them. Let them dispense with every unhealthful gratification
in eating and drinking. Some go to distant countries to seek
a better climate; but wherever they may be, the stomach creates
for them a malarious atmosphere. They bring upon themselves suffering
that no one can alleviate. Let them bring their daily practice
into harmony with nature's laws; and by doing as well as believing,
an atmosphere may be created about both soul and body that will
be a savor of life unto life.
Brethren, we are far behind. Many of the
things which the church should do in order to be a living church
are not done. Through the indulgence of perverted appetite many
place themselves in such a condition of health that there is
a constant warring against the soul's highest interests. The
truth, though presented in clear lines, is not accepted. I wish
to set this matter before every member of our churches. Our habits
must be brought into conformity to the will of God. We are assured,
"It is God which worketh in you," but man must do his
part in controlling appetite and passion. The religious life
requires the action of mind and heart in harmony with the divine
forces. No man can of himself work out his
own salvation, and God cannot do this work for him without his
co-operation. But when man works earnestly, God works with him,
giving him power to become a son of God.
When persons are spoken to on the subject
of health, they often say: "We know a great deal better
than we do." They do not realize that they are accountable
for every ray of light in regard to their physical well-being,
and that their every habit is open to the inspection of God.
Physical life is not to be treated in a haphazard manner. Every
organ, every fiber of the being, is to be sacredly guarded from
harmful practices.