Health and Temperance by J. M. Sturtevant

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Dec 29, 1887

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 13, No. 50.

Health and Temperance.

By J. M. Sturtevant

HOW TO BE STRONG.

WHEN men are preparing for a boat-race, their first care is to have a good boat. It must be light and perfectly shaped, or the strong arms of the rowers will never win the race. Our bodies are like boats, in which we row the race of life. Young bodies endure a great deal of abuse, and for that reason most girls and boys dislike to read lectures about health. They do not wish to seem puny. They are right that it is very silly for young people to bundle up their heads and necks like the very aged, to be afraid of a draught of fresh air, or of getting a little tired, or even sometimes a little wet. Little babies and old people need a kind of care which is unnecessary for them.

A bright, strong mind in a weak and sickly body is a painful sight. Such a sight would seldom be seen if young folks would remember to care for the boat in which they are to row the race of life. Vigorous muscles, healthy stomachs, and large lungs generally make healthy bodies. If you have these three things, you will enjoy life, so far as eating, working, and sleeping are concerned. Young bodies naturally grow strong, and we need think about them only to avoid mistakes. Growing powers need to be used. Use makes the muscles strong and the lungs large. Proper exercise of the arms is worth much more than back-boards and braces to keep young shoulders straight. A little exercise, and a few long breaths taken regularly every morning, will be of great use to you.

I hope that few in this day need to be reminded of the relation of cleanliness and exercise to health. A more important matter is the government of our rising appetites and passions. The subject is not more important than is it difficult. First, let me say, do not regret that yours are strong. If you are so hungry that it is hard to keep from helping yourself in the forbidden pantry, or from eating so much at the table that you are dull and stupid for hours after dinner, the appetite is a good sign; well governed, it will give you enjoyment and strength for many years. If you have what is called a violent temper, it indicates an intensity and force which, under good control, will make you a power in the world. Only avoid that which is evil, and your growth will be natural and beautiful. God made the plan, and his loving care will watch every step of your development.

Use your powers in proper ways, and they will gain strength. Absolutely resist, by the grace of God, the slightest improper indulgence of passion, and it will seem to lose its strength, because it becomes your servant. Yet will it live to make you a blessing to those that love you, and a helper to others that are tempted.—Rev. J. M. Sturtevant, D. D., in Congregationalist.