Health and Temperance by R. F. Cottrell

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, Cal. · Jan 28, 1886

Health and Temperance.

By R. F. Cottrell

HEALTH and temperance are words often associated together; and these qualities naturally go together, because there is a natural relation between them. But the natural order is, temperance first, and health as the result. The true order of qualities in the work of the reformation of our race is, faith, courage, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, charity.

Without faith in the work we undertake, nothing good will be accomplished. Faith inspires courage, the second necessary qualification. But blind faith and fool-hardy courage will not answer the purpose. Knowledge is necessary to direct our efforts. A knowledge of the organization of our being and of our relation to surrounding objects, their adaptations to our use, or, otherwise, of their hurtful tendencies, lays the foundation for true temperance. Temperance leads to health and patient endurance; the want of it is disastrous in these respects. These steps lead on to godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity; and these prepare a person for the finishing touch of immortality,—the perfect reformation and restoration of man to temperance, health, and happiness forever. R. F. COTTRELL.