Ellen Chat Conversation

The instruction for families to relocate from urban centers to rural areas is a recurring theme in these writings, emphasized as a necessary step for spiritual and physical preservation. This move is presented not merely as a suggestion but as a repeated divine counsel intended to help believers prepare for eternal life and avoid the spiritual and physical dangers inherent in city living (19MR 229.3) (CL 17.1) (2SM 356.3). One primary reason for this move is the practical necessity of self-sufficiency. Future challenges regarding the ability to buy and sell will make it essential for families to be in locations where they can produce their own food (LDE 99.4) (4MR 88.5). Furthermore, rural living provides "elbow room" and a reprieve from the crowded, noisy, and demoralizing atmosphere of the city, which can negatively impact the character and health of both adults and children (CL 29) (21MR 90.3).

This counsel also extends to the location of institutions, such as schools and medical facilities. Establishing these entities outside of city limits prevents the unnecessary clustering of families in polluted urban environments and allows for the integration of agricultural industries into the educational experience (21MR 90.3) (CL 29). The ultimate goal is to separate from the confusion and interference of the world to better focus on character development and the works of God in nature (CL 29) (20MR 101.7). The urgency of this message is underscored by the observation of current events and the increasing judgments of God seen in the world (CD 40.4).

The call to "come out from among them" is a plea for separation from the moral and physical pollution of the cities before it becomes mandatory to leave under even more difficult circumstances (21MR 90.3) (CL 17.1).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the spiritual benefits of gardening and nature for children?How does the instruction to leave the cities relate to the final crisis and the "buying and selling" restriction?What practical counsel did she give regarding the balance between living in the country and working in the cities?

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The concept of country living is deeply intertwined with the principles of health reform and moral preservation. Establishing a home in a rural setting provides the necessary environment to cultivate a diet based on the natural bounties the Creator has provided, such as fruits, grains, and vegetables (6T 112) (PH011 80.2). This transition away from urban centers allows families to move away from the "snare" of unhealthful dietary habits—including the use of flesh meats, rich pastries, and stimulating condiments—which are often prevalent in city life and contribute to the enfeeblement of the intellect and the derangement of the digestive system (TSDF 12). Living in the country facilitates a more successful adoption of health reform by providing access to fresh produce and the space to prepare food in its most natural state (PH011 80.2).

It is noted that when individuals attempt to leave a meat-based diet without properly supplying the system with nourishing alternatives, they may become weak, potentially bringing the principles of health reform into disrepute (TSDF 12.4). A rural environment supports the "care and skill" required to prepare wholesome dishes that can successfully replace meat and educate the appetite toward a more healthful standard (CD 410.2). Furthermore, the move to the country is presented as a means of strengthening the spiritual and physical "propensities." By avoiding the use of flesh meats, which are said to strengthen lower propensities and invite disease, families can better prepare themselves for service to the Lord (CD 390.3).

While the counsel on diet must be applied with common sense and consideration for different countries and circumstances—avoiding extreme forms that might do more harm than good—the ultimate goal of country living is to create a household where health principles are lived out strictly, enabling believers to do "double service" for the cause of God (9T 163) (CD 390.3).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the spiritual benefits of gardening and working the soil?How does the move to the country prepare families for the final crisis and the inability to buy or sell?What specific advice did she give regarding the location of schools and sanitariums in rural areas?