The End, or Purpose, of Health Principles
By M. E. Olsen
“The end of the commandment is charity;” and the end of that part of the divine law which relates to the care of the body is likewise charity. In other words, the adoption of right physical habits is to be regarded as a means rather than an end; as a fitting up for work, not as the work itself. We may learn a lesson from the sad experience of the Israelites. They obeyed the letter of the divine ordinances committed to them, but neglected to do the work for a perishing world which these ordinances especially fitted them to do. They rightly regarded themselves as a chosen people, but utterly lost sight of the fact that they were chosen to be channels through whom the divine blessing might flow out to suffering humanity. Now, in the closing period of this earth’s history, the Lord has called out a chosen people, and committed to this people life-giving principles, soul-stirring truths, which are to be proclaimed in all the world. It is evident, then, that adopting these principles for ourselves and our loved ones, is simply preparatory to effective and systematic missionary effort. It is putting on the whole armor of God, in order that we may fight the enemy of souls, and rescue men and women for the kingdom. We are the Lord’s servants, and as a kind master, He looks after our physical welfare. He provides appropriate food, and instructs us in regard to the maintenance of the best health. Are we, then, to rest content with complying with these commands concerning our own comfort and well-being?—By no means. We are servants, and therefore have a work to do. This work consists in loving ministry to our fellow men. Philanthropy in its true sense, is the duty of every Christian. He “went about doing good,” is the divinely worded summary of Christ’s earthly life. If our lives are according to the pattern, it will be equally true of us. The great need of the world to-day is not head religion, but hands-and-feet religion. Possibly, if Christ were upon earth to-day, He might say to some of us, “Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” The health principles are given us as a sacred trust, that the light may shine forth from every Seventh-day Adventist home into the surrounding neighborhood. Why should not our brethren watch their opportunities to speak of these life-giving truths? Why should not our sisters give at least one afternoon a week to calling on their neighbors, and inviting them to subscribe for one of our health magazines? Some may say, “We have neither the time nor the strength.” No, but God will give them to you as you need them. Only a very few have availed themselves of His promise, “Then . . . thine health shall spring forth speedily;” but no one who has done so, has been disappointed. The Lord is not straitened for means, but He is asking for willing instruments. When we once begin to realize the solemn fact that God will hold us accountable for every ounce of strength committed to us, our anxiety to be faithful in the use of what we already have will be greater than our desire for more. Let us foster the missionary spirit among the children. Why not encourage them to sell our papers? There is an immense work to be done. No one can be spared. The world is to be warned by a people showing in their daily walk and conversation an earnest love for God, and a willingness to lay down their lives, if need be, for the good of their fellow men.