364
Counsels on Diet and Foods
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
faultfinding, 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.
There is something better to talk about than the faults and weak-
nesses of others. Talk of God and His wonderful works. Study into the
manifestations of His love and wisdom in all the works of nature.—
Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 119, 120, 1890
Teach by Example
799. In your association with unbelievers, do not allow yourselves
to be swerved from right principles. If you sit at their table, eat
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temperately, and only of food that will not confuse the mind. Keep
clear of intemperance. You cannot afford to weaken your mental or
physical powers, lest you become unable to discern spiritual things.
Keep your mind in such a condition that God can impress it with the
precious truths of His word.... Do not watch others in order to point out
their faults or errors. Teach by example. Let your self-denial and your
victory over appetite be an illustration of obedience to right principles.
Let your life bear witness to the sanctifying, ennobling influence of
truth.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:336, 1900