Reasons for Reform
33
others. Can He be pleased when half the workers laboring in a place,
teach that the principles of health reform are as closely allied with the
third angel’s message as the arm is to the body, while their co-workers,
by their practice, teach principles that are entirely opposite? This is
regarded as a sin in the sight of God....
Nothing brings such discouragement upon the Lord’s watchmen
as to be connected with those who have mental capacity, and who un-
derstand the reasons of our faith, but by precept and example manifest
indifference to moral obligations.
The light which God has given upon health reform cannot be trifled
with without injury to those who attempt it; and no man can hope to
succeed in the work of God while, by precept and example, he acts in
opposition to the light which God has sent.—
Letter 48, 1902
[39]
44. It is important that instructions should be given by ministers
in regard to living temperately. They should show the relation which
eating, working, resting, and dressing, sustain to health. All who
believe the truth for these last days, have something to do in this
matter. It concerns them, and God requires them to arouse and interest
themselves in this reform. He will not be pleased with their course
if they regard this question with indifference.—
Testimonies for the
Church 1:618, 1867
Stumbling Over the Blessing
45. Said the angel, “Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against
the soul.” You have stumbled at the health reform. It appears to you
to be a needless appendix to the truth. It is not so; it is a part of
the truth. Here is a work before you which will come closer and be
more trying than anything which has yet been brought to bear upon
you. While you hesitate and stand back, failing to lay hold upon the
blessing which it is your privilege to receive, you suffer loss. You
are stumbling over the very blessing which heaven has placed in your
path to make progress less difficult. Satan presents this before you in
the most objectionable light, that you may combat that which would
prove the greatest benefit to you, which would be for your physical
and spiritual health.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:546, 1867
[
Excuses for Wrongdoing Framed under Satanic Influences—710
]