Clear-Mindedness Needed Today

But mind is not something apart from bodily force and function. To have a strong mind we must have a strong body ; that is, our physi­cal condition must be free from disease and pain. We all know how bodily distress of any kind interferes with the efficient working of our minds. The one acts like a damper upon the other.

We find this fact brought forth in these pertinent words in "Counsels on Health:"

"The relation which exists between the mind and the body is very intimate. When one is affected, the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind af­fects the health of the physical system. If the mind is free and happy, from a. consciousness of right do­ing and a sense of satisfaction in causing happiness to others, it creates a cheerfulness that will react upon the whole system, causing a freer circulation of the blood, and a toning up of the entire body. The blessing of God is a healing power, and those who are abundant in benefiting others will realize that wondrous blessing in both heart and life."—Page 28.

Many Scriptures show the truth of these words. Here are a few of them: "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who for­giveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruc­tion; who crowneth thee with loving-kindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's." Ps. 103:1-3.

Isaiah speaks of the glorious consequences that will come to him who will really "draw near to God." He says, in chapter 32, verse 8, "Then shall thy light break forth as the morn­ing, and thine health shall spring forth speed­ily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rear­ward." Note again these inspired words from "Counsels on Health:"

"The religion of the Bible is not detrimental to the health of either body or mind. The influence of the Spirit of God is the very best medicine for disease. Heaven is all health ; and the more deeply heavenly influences are realized, the more sure will be the recov­ery of the believing invalid. The true principles of Christianity open before all a source of inestimable happiness. Religion is a continual wellspring, from which the Christian can drink at will, and never ex­haust the fountain."—Page 28.

How striking have been the issues of con­version in the lives of those who have turned from sin to righteousness! Whereas before they were physically depressed and diseased, mentally dull and indistinct, the light and power of Heaven have brought in new forces and new encouragement. Life began to be worth while, and the days took on a golden glow instead of the leaden cast of gnawing sorrow and disappointment.

"When men who have indulged in wrong habits and sinful practices yield to the power of divine truth, the application of that truth to the heart re­vives the moral powers, which had seemed to be paralyzed. The receiver possesses stronger, clearer understanding than before he riveted his soul to the eternal Rock. Even his physical health improves by the realization of his security in Christ. The special blessing of God resting upon the receiver is of itself health and strength.

"Those who walk in the path of wisdom and holi­ness, find that 'godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.' I Tim. 4:8. They are alive to the enjoyment of life's real pleasures, and are not troubled with vain regrets over misspent hours, nor with gloomy forebodings, as the worldling too often is when not diverted by some exciting amusement. Godliness does not conflict with the laws of health, but is in harmony with them. The fear of the Lord is the foundation of all real prosperity."--/d., pp. 28, 29.