Ellen Chat Conversation

The writings of Ellen White acknowledge that the youth of today are the future leaders of society, specifically noting that they will eventually occupy positions in legislative councils and have a voice in both enacting and executing the laws of the nation (HR August 1, 1878, par. 2). Because of these solemn future responsibilities, there is a strong emphasis on the importance of physical and mental temperance, as these future legislators must maintain clear brains and noble characters to fulfill their duties effectively (EA 58.5). Rather than discouraging such high aspirations, the counsel focuses on the preparation required for such influence. Young people are encouraged to seek a connection with God that fosters noble aspirations, lofty purposes of action, and a breadth of thought that allows them to become channels of wisdom to the world (4T 624.2).

When youth comply with high standards and regulations, they are told that such discipline actually improves their standing in society and ennobles their minds for future success (CCh 212.6). Conversely, there is a warning that the capacity for a life of usefulness—including these high-level roles—can be lost if youth allow themselves to be swept away by dissipation or a love of amusement for its own sake (9T 90.1). To reach the height of moral excellence required for leadership, the youth must resist the popular current and maintain their religious aspirations, which link them to the spiritual world and prepare them for the demands of public service (1MCP 315.3).

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The counsel regarding the aspirations of youth for high-level civic service is found in several of Ellen White's writings, where she addresses the desire to reach the summit of intellectual greatness and participate in the governance of the nation. She explicitly states that there is nothing inherently wrong with the ambition to sit in deliberative and legislative councils or to help enact laws for the nation (CSA 64.8). Instead of discouraging these goals, she encourages young people to aim high and spare no effort in reaching a standard that allows them to make a significant mark on the world (1MCP 367.4). Because the youth of today are the ones who will eventually take part in legislative councils and have a voice in executing laws, there is a heavy emphasis on their moral and physical preparation (HR August 1, 1878, par. 2).

She warns that those who will occupy such solemn positions must have clear brains and be free from the controlling power of perverted appetite (EA 58.5). The goal of education and training for these future leaders is to ensure they can stand in the purity of their God-given manhood while discharging the claims that society and their Maker have upon them (GW 68.2). To be successful in these high callings, youth are encouraged to set up well-defined landmarks and seek wisdom from on high to meet the perplexities that arise in public service. By adopting the standards of God's word as their guide, they can develop an influence that is valued by society and build a character that is noble and just (YI February 7, 1901, par. 5).

Ultimately, complying with high regulations and maintaining a sanctified mind ennobles the youth for the grave responsibilities they will one day carry in the civic arena (CT 99.3).

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In the context of Ellen White's writings, the abbreviation CSA stands for the book *Counsels on Stewardship*. This compilation focuses on the biblical principles of benevolence, the management of resources, and the spiritual responsibility of using one's means and influence for the advancement of God's work. The specific reference mentioned previously regarding youth aspirations in the civic arena is found in a section of this book that discusses the development of character and the proper use of one's talents. It emphasizes that God does not desire for young people to have low aims, but rather to prepare themselves for positions of trust and influence. While the book primarily addresses stewardship of finances, it also covers the stewardship of the mind and the importance of physical health in maintaining mental clarity for those in leadership. It suggests that a clear brain is essential for those who will eventually participate in making and executing the laws of the land.

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