Mind, Character, and Personality Vol. 2 - Second Advent Revival

happiness and blessings within their reach and are continually seeking for happiness
and satisfaction that they do not realize. They are constantly on the stretch for some
expected, far-off good greater than they possess and are ever in a state of
disappointment. They cherish unbelief and ingratitude in that they overlook the
blessings right in their pathway. The common, everyday blessings of life are unwelcome
to them, as was the manna to the children of Israel.--2T 640 (1871). {2MCP 646.3}
Amusements Excite, but React in Depression.-- Amusements excite the mind,
but depression is sure to follow. Useful labor and physical exercise will have a more
healthful influence upon the mind and will strengthen the muscles, improve the
circulation, and will prove a powerful agent in the recovery of health.--HR, Mar, 1872.
(ML 150.) {2MCP 646.4}
Seeking Happiness the Wrong Way (counsel to a young man).--One year ago
we labored for your interest.
647
I had been shown your dangers, and we were desirous of saving you; but we see you
have not had strength to carry out the resolutions there made. I am troubled over the
matter.... While in Battle Creek in June I was again shown that you were not making
any advance and that the reason you were not is that you have not made a clean track
behind you. You do not enjoy religion. You have departed from God and righteousness.
You have been seeking happiness in the wrong way, in forbidden pleasures; and you
have not moral courage to confess and forsake your sins that you may find mercy.--2T
291 (1869). {2MCP 646.5}
Clear Conscience and God's Approval Versus Natural Passions and Carnal
Heart.--Of what good would He deprive us? He would deprive us of the privilege of
giving up to the natural passions of the carnal heart. We cannot get angry just when we
please and retain a clear conscience and the approval of God. But are we not willing to
give this up? Will the indulgence of corrupt passions make us any happier? It is
because it will not that restrictions are laid upon us in this respect. {2MCP 647.1}
It will not add to our enjoyment to get angry and cultivate a perverse temper. It is not
for our happiness to follow the leadings of the natural heart. And shall we be made
better by indulging them? No; they will cast a shadow in our households and throw a
pall over our happiness. Giving way to the natural appetites will only injure the
constitution and tear the system to pieces. Therefore God would have us restrict the
appetite, control the passions, and hold in subjection the entire man. And He has
promised to give us strength if we will engage in this work.--2T 590, 591 (1871). {2MCP
647.2}
Promote Health and Long Life.--Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote
health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and
strength to the soul. "A merry [rejoicing] heart