Congratulations on your new relationship! It's wise to seek guidance on how to build it on a strong, holistic foundation. Based on the writings of Ellen White, here is some holistic advice for a young Adventist couple. ### 1. Center Your Relationship in Christ The most crucial element is ensuring that your relationship is founded on a shared love for God. This should be the bond that unites you. * "It is only in Christ that a marriage alliance can be safely formed. Human love should draw its closest bonds from divine love. Only where Christ reigns can there be deep, true, unselfish affection." (MH 358.3) * Be cautious that your relationship doesn't pull you away from your spiritual duties. "The habit of frequently being in the society of the one of your choice, and that, too, at the sacrifice of religious privileges and of your hours of prayer, is dangerous; you sustain a loss that you cannot afford." (3T 44.2) ### 2. Don't Rush; Take Time to Prepare A relationship is a serious commitment, and preparation is key. Rushing into a deep commitment without being fully prepared can lead to future difficulties. * "Before assuming the responsibilities involved in marriage, young men and young women should have such an experience in practical life as will prepare them for its duties and its burdens. Early marriages are not to be encouraged. A relation so important as marriage and so far-reaching in its results should not be entered upon hastily, without sufficient preparation, and before the mental and physical powers are well developed." (MH 358.1) * "Young people too often feel that the bestowal of their affections is a matter in which self alone should be consulted,—a matter that neither God nor their parents should in any wise control. Long before they have reached manhood or womanhood, they think themselves competent to make their own choice, without the aid of their parents." (PP 175.3) ### 3. Look for True Character Focus on the character of the person you are with. A lasting relationship is built on more than just feelings; it's built on character, integrity, and shared values. * A young woman should accept "only one who possesses pure, manly traits of character, one who is diligent, aspiring, and honest, one who loves and fears God." (MH 359.3) * A young man should seek one "who is fitted to bear her share of life's burdens, one whose influence will ennoble and refine him, and who will make him happy in her love." (MH 359.3) ### 4. Seek Counsel from Trusted Elders Don't make this journey alone. Involve your parents and other experienced, trusted individuals who can offer guidance and prayerful support. * "If there is any subject which should be carefully considered and in which the counsel of older and more experienced persons should be sought, it is the subject of marriage; if ever the Bible was needed as a counselor, if ever divine guidance should be sought in prayer, it is before taking a step that binds persons together for life." (PP 175.4) * "Fathers and mothers should feel that a duty devolves upon them to guide the affections of the youth, that they may be placed upon those who will be suitable companions." (PP 176.1) ### 5. Maintain Purity and Self-Respect Your conduct within the relationship should always be honoring to God and respectful of each other. * "The habit of sitting up late at night is customary; but it is not pleasing to God, even if you are both Christians. These untimely hours injure health, unfit the mind for the next day's duties, and have an appearance of evil. My brother, I hope you will have self-respect enough to shun this form of courtship." (3T 44.2) * "Positively guard your thoughts, your passions, and your affections. Do not degrade these to minister to lust. Elevate them to purity, devote them to God." (2T 564.1) By focusing on these principles—keeping God at the center, taking your time, valuing character, seeking counsel, and maintaining purity—you can build a relationship that is healthy, strong, and blessed by God.

Based on the writings of Ellen White, the plan of redemption is the grand, divine arrangement established to save humanity from the consequences of sin and restore the world to God's favor. It is a central theme of Scripture, revealing God's profound love and justice. ### A Plan Formed in Eternity The plan for our salvation was not a reaction to sin but was established before the world was created. * "The plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of ‘the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal.’ Romans 16:25, R. V. It was an unfolding of the principles that from eternal ages have been the foundation of God's throne." (DA 22.2) * "From the beginning, God and Christ knew of the apostasy of Satan, and of the fall of man through the deceptive power of the apostate. God did not ordain that sin should exist, but He foresaw its existence, and made provision to meet the terrible emergency. So great was His love for the world, that He covenanted to give His only-begotten Son, ‘that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’" (DA 22.2) ### The Centrality of Christ's Sacrifice The entire plan is founded on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who took upon Himself the punishment for sin. * "All the plan of redemption is expressed in these precious words: ‘For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ Christ actually bore the punishment of the sins of the world, that his righteousness might be imputed to sinners, and through repentance and faith they might become like him in holiness of character." (SpTEd 21.3) * "When the Saviour yielded up His life, and with His expiring breath cried out, ‘It is finished,’ then the fulfillment of the plan of redemption was assured. The promise of salvation made to the sinful pair in Eden was ratified. The kingdom of grace, which had before existed by the promise of God, was then established." (GC 347.2) ### The Ultimate Restoration The result of the plan of redemption is the complete restoration of all that was lost by sin—not just humanity, but the earth itself. * "The great plan of redemption results in fully bringing back the world into God's favor. All that was lost by sin is restored. Not only man but the earth is redeemed, to be the eternal abode of the obedient." (PP 342.1) * "The work of redemption will be complete. In the place where sin abounded, God's grace much more abounds. The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be not only ransomed but exalted... Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in humanity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died,—here, when He shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be with men." (DA 26.3) ### A Theme for Eternal Study The depth and breadth of God's love as revealed in the plan of redemption is a subject that will be studied for all eternity. * "The plan of redemption will not be fully understood, even when the ransomed see as they are seen and know as they are known; but through the eternal ages, new truth will continually unfold to the wondering and delighted mind." (4SP 468.1) * "The truths of redemption are capable of constant development and expansion. Though old, they are ever new, constantly revealing to the seeker for truth a greater glory and a mightier power." (COL 127.3) ### Our Response This incredible gift calls for a response of gratitude, obedience, and joy. * "The Lord desires us to appreciate the great plan of redemption, to realize our high privilege as the children of God, and to walk before Him in obedience, with grateful thanksgiving. He desires us to serve Him in newness of life, with gladness every day." (COL 299.2)

Of course. Let's explore what Ellen White wrote on the topic of love and whether it is "blind." Based on her writings, Ellen White makes a clear distinction between **true, sanctified love** and what is often mistaken for love—**blind infatuation or passion**. She teaches that while infatuation is blind, true love is intelligent, discerning, and clear-sighted. ### Infatuation is Blind Ellen White warns that what many people call "love" is actually an impulsive, unreasoning passion that is indeed blind to character flaws and reality. * "That which is called love, but which is only blind passion, is not under the control of reason. It will not listen to the voice of counsel or authority." (5T 112.2) * "Imagination, lovesick sentimentalism, should be guarded against as would be the leprosy. Very many of the young men and women in this age of the world are lacking in virtue; therefore great caution is needed. The affections should be restrained and not be permitted to go out and fasten upon unworthy objects." (2T 252.1) * She describes this blind feeling as a deception: "Satan is busily engaged in influencing those who are wholly unsuited to each other to unite their interests. He is exulting in this work, for by it he can produce more misery and hopeless woe to the human family than by exercising his skill in any other direction." (AH 54.3) ### True Love is Not Blind; It is Intelligent In contrast, she presents true love as a principle that is thoughtful, based on sound judgment, and fully aware of the other person's character. * "True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. On the contrary, it is calm and deep in its nature. It looks beyond the external and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding." (AH 51.1) * "Love is a precious gift, which we receive from Jesus. Pure and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. Those who are actuated by true love are not unreasonable or blind." (AH 51.2) * This principle requires open eyes, not closed ones: "If there is any subject which should be carefully considered and in which the counsel of older and more experienced persons should be sought, it is the subject of marriage; if ever the Bible was needed as a counselor, if ever divine guidance should be sought in prayer, it is before taking a step that binds persons together for life." (PP 175.4) In summary, Ellen White's counsel is that you should not trust a "blind" love. A relationship founded on true, godly love will be one where both partners have their eyes wide open, understanding each other's character, seeking counsel, and building their connection on a foundation of principle and shared faith, not just fleeting emotion.

Based on the writings of Ellen White, the life of a true Christian is a dynamic, purposeful journey of growth, service, and constant connection with God. It is described not as a destination, but as a "battle and a march" that requires continuous effort and reliance on divine strength. Here are the key characteristics of a true Christian's life as outlined in her writings: ### 1. A Life of Continuous Growth The Christian journey is one of constant forward movement, with no room for stagnation. It is about continually growing in faith and character. * "The life of a true Christian is ever onward. There is no standing still nor going back." (2T 521.1) * "It is your privilege to be ‘filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.’" (2T 521.1) ### 2. A Life of Service and Purpose A core aspect of the Christian life is selfless service to God and others, driven by principle rather than fleeting emotions. * "The life of a true Christian is one continuous round of service. ‘We are laborers together with God.’" (9T 220.4) * "The true Christian works for God, not from impulse, but from principle; not for a day or a month, but during the entire life." (GW 84.3) ### 3. A Life of Constant Prayer and Dependence on God Recognizing their own weakness, true Christians maintain a constant connection with God through prayer, seeking the strength needed for daily challenges. * "The life of a true Christian is a life of constant prayer. He knows that the light and strength of one day is not sufficient for the trials and conflicts of the next... It is only through the strength and grace gained from heaven that we can hope to meet the temptations and perform the duties before us." (GW 257.3) ### 4. A Life That Is a Powerful Witness The most effective argument for Christianity is a life that reflects the character of Christ. This holy living serves as a light to others. * "Let us remember that a Christlike life is the most powerful argument that can be advanced in favor of Christianity, and that a cheap Christian character works more harm in the world than the character of a worldling." (9T 21) * "The life of the true believer reveals an indwelling Saviour. The follower of Jesus is Christlike in spirit and in temper. Like Christ, he is meek and humble. His faith works by love and purifies the soul. His whole life is a testimony to the power of the grace of Christ." (7T 67.2) ### 5. A Life of Battle and Self-Denial The Christian walk is a constant struggle against temptation and requires intentional self-denial and perseverance. * "The Christian life is a battle and a march. In this warfare there is no release; the effort must be continuous and persevering. It is by unceasing endeavor that we maintain the victory over the temptations of Satan." (MH 453.2) * "The Christian life is one of constant self-denial and self-control." (CTBH 145.2) In essence, the life of a true Christian is a transformative experience, marked by a deep relationship with God, a commitment to service, and the continual development of a Christ-like character.

Of course. The concept of "Present Truth" is a significant theme in the writings of Ellen White. It refers to the specific messages and biblical truths that are most urgent and applicable for God's people at a particular point in history. Based on her writings, here is what "Present Truth" entails, including the Bible verses she references. ### 1. Definition of Present Truth Present Truth is the timely, relevant message that God is emphasizing for a specific generation to prepare them for what is to come. The foundational scripture for this concept is: * **2 Peter 1:12:** "Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the **present truth**." Ellen White explains that while old truths are still important, there is always a "present truth" that demands special attention. * "There are many precious truths contained in the Word of God, but it is ‘present truth’ that the flock needs now." (EW 63.1) * "The question of most vital importance for this time is, ‘What is truth?’... It is the truth for this time, not a truth that was held in former generations." (RH, June 3, 1890) ### 2. The Unfolding of Truth Truth is progressive. God reveals more light and understanding as His people are able to receive it. This is consistent with Jesus's promise: * **John 16:12-13:** "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth." Ellen White builds on this, warning against rejecting new light simply because it is unfamiliar. * "We must not think, ‘Well, we have all the truth, we understand the main pillars of our faith, and we may rest on this knowledge.’ The truth is an advancing truth, and we must walk in the increasing light." (CW 33.2) ### 3. The Core of Present Truth for Today: The Three Angels' Messages For the time of the end, Ellen White identifies the "Present Truth" as the Three Angels' Messages found in Revelation. These messages are God's final warning and call of mercy to the world before the second coming of Jesus. * **Revelation 14:6-12:** This passage describes three angels flying in the midst of heaven with the everlasting gospel. * **The First Angel (v. 6-7):** Calls the world to "Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters." This is a call to worship the Creator and recognize that the final judgment has begun. * **The Second Angel (v. 8):** Proclaims, "Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication." This warns against corrupt and false religious systems. * **The Third Angel (v. 9-12):** Gives the most solemn warning against worshipping the "beast and his image" and receiving his "mark." It concludes by identifying God's people as those who "keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Ellen White states: * "The third angel’s message is the proclamation of the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus Christ. The commandments of God have been proclaimed, but the faith of Jesus Christ has not been proclaimed by Seventh-day Adventists as of equal importance... This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world. It is the third angel’s message, which is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure." (CW 216.1) ### 4. Key Doctrines within Present Truth The Three Angels' Messages encompass several key biblical doctrines that became central to the Adventist understanding of "Present Truth": * **The Sanctuary and Investigative Judgment:** The first angel's announcement that "the hour of His judgment is come" points to Christ's final work of ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, as depicted in **Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14** and **Daniel 8:14**. * **The Sabbath:** The call to "worship him that made heaven, and earth" is a direct echo of the fourth commandment in **Exodus 20:8-11**, making the seventh-day Sabbath a central sign of loyalty to the Creator. * **The Law of God:** The third angel identifies the saints as those who "keep the commandments of God," emphasizing the eternal, unchanging nature of His law. * **The State of the Dead:** Understanding that the dead are "asleep" (**John 11:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14**) protects against the deceptions of spiritualism, which is a key feature of end-time "Babylon." In summary, "Present Truth" is the specific, timely message God has for the world at a given time. For the last days, it is the everlasting gospel contained in the Three Angels' Messages of Revelation 14, calling people back to the worship of the Creator, to come out of false religious systems, and to keep the commandments of God through the faith of Jesus, in preparation for His soon return.

Of course. The topic of "grooming" in the context of personal appearance is addressed in the writings of Ellen White, not as a set of rigid rules, but as a collection of principles rooted in biblical teachings on modesty, simplicity, and representing Christ. Here is a holistic overview of what this entails, including the biblical foundation and guidance from Ellen White's writings. ### The Biblical Foundation The core principles for Christian grooming and appearance are found in the New Testament. These verses emphasize that a Christian's focus should be on inner character rather than outward display. * **1 Timothy 2:9-10 (NKJV):** "In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works." * **1 Peter 3:3-4 (NKJV):** "Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." These passages provide the "why" behind the Adventist approach to appearance: the goal is to reflect a heart devoted to God. --- ### What Adventist Grooming Entails (The Principles) Based on these scriptures, Ellen White outlines several positive principles for how Christians should present themselves. #### 1. Simplicity and Modesty The primary principle is that clothing and appearance should be simple, neat, and modest. The goal is to avoid drawing undue attention to oneself and to glorify God instead. * "Our clothing, while modest and simple, should be of good quality, of becoming colors, and suited for service. It should be chosen for durability rather than display." (MH 288.3) * "In all things we are to be representatives of Him. Our appearance should be characterized by neatness, modesty, and purity." (6T 96.1) #### 2. Healthfulness Appearance and dress are also connected to physical health. Clothing should be comfortable, practical, and not harmful to the body. * "Christians should not neglect their dress... It should be healthful, comfortable, and convenient." (CG 414.1) * She counseled against practices that were detrimental to health, such as tight-fitting garments that restrict circulation or breathing, emphasizing that our bodies are the "temple of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19). #### 3. Focus on Inner Beauty True beauty is a reflection of a Christ-like character. The greatest "adornment" is a gentle and peaceful spirit. * "The love of dress endangers the morals and makes the woman the opposite of the Christian lady, characterized by modesty and sobriety. Showy, extravagant dress too often encourages lust in the heart of the wearer and awakens base passions in the heart of the beholder." (4T 645.1) * "The choicest adornment is the ‘meek and quiet spirit,’ which in the sight of God is of great price." (CG 418.2) --- ### What Should Be Avoided (The Application of Principles) Applying these principles leads to the avoidance of certain practices that are seen as contrary to the spirit of Christian modesty and simplicity. #### 1. Extravagance and Display Anything done for mere show or to keep up with worldly fashions is discouraged. This includes expensive, flashy, or overly trendy clothing. * "To dress according to the dictates of fashion, to deck the body with ‘gold, and pearls, and costly array,’ is not the Christian's duty; it is the worldling's pleasure." (RH, December 6, 1881) * "Self-denial in dress is a part of our Christian duty. To dress plainly, and abstain from display of jewelry and ornaments of every kind, is in keeping with our faith." (3T 366.1) #### 2. Jewelry and External Ornaments Following the counsel in 1 Timothy 2:9 and 1 Peter 3:3, the wearing of jewelry (such as rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets) for adornment is discouraged. * "Those who have bracelets, and wear gold and ornaments, had better take these idols from their persons and sell them... The followers of Christ should not decorate the body with ornaments of gold or silver." (1T 279.1) * The reasoning is that it represents an outward focus on that which is "merely outward," contrary to the principle of cultivating inner beauty. #### 3. Artificial Beauty (Cosmetics) While not extensively discussed in the same way as jewelry, the principle of avoiding artificiality and vanity applies to cosmetics. The focus is on natural, healthful beauty rather than artificial enhancement. * "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works." (1T 279.1) The principle here is that a Christian's "beauty" comes from their character and actions, not from external applications. In summary, the Adventist approach to grooming is not about legalism but about living out the biblical principles of modesty, simplicity, and health. It's a conscious choice to place the focus on inner character and one's witness for Christ, rather than on outward appearance.

Of course. Let's explore the principles in Ellen White's writings regarding women's attire, specifically as it relates to trousers or pants like jeans. It is important to begin with the historical context: Ellen White wrote in the 19th century, a time when trousers were exclusively male attire in Western culture. Modern jeans and trousers designed for women did not exist. Therefore, she never mentioned "jeans" or "trousers" for ladies as we know them today. However, she wrote extensively on the *principles* of dress, particularly in the context of the "dress reform" movement of her time. Her counsel is centered on the biblical injunction found in **Deuteronomy 22:5**: > "A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman's garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the Lord your God." (NKJV) Based on this scripture, her primary concern was maintaining a clear **distinction** between the sexes. ### The Principle of Distinction Ellen White taught that God intended for there to be a plain and obvious difference in the clothing of men and women. She saw the blurring of these lines as a source of confusion and moral danger. * "God designed that there should be a plain distinction between the dress of men and women, and has considered the matter of sufficient importance to give explicit directions in regard to it; for the same dress worn by both sexes would cause confusion and great increase of crime." (1T 457.2) * "We are not to imitate the world in this respect. We are to follow the Bible, and the Bible only." (1T 458.1) ### Counsel on the "American Costume" The most direct application of this principle came in her counsel regarding a style of dress reform called the "American Costume." This outfit consisted of a shorter dress worn over trousers (or "pantaloons"). While she acknowledged its health benefits over the fashionable, restrictive dresses of the day, she strongly counseled against it because it too closely resembled the attire of men. * "We do not recommend the ‘American Costume.’ We do not protest against the short dress, but we do object to the pants. We see no necessity for them. We would recommend a dress that is in every way modest, and yet does not in the least approach the pants." (HR, March 1, 1871) * She warned that adopting a style of dress that mimicked men's clothing was a "device of Satan" to break down the distinctions God had established. "In this style of dress God's order has been reversed, and His special directions disregarded." (1T 457.1) ### Applying the Principles Today Since Ellen White did not forbid a specific garment that didn't exist, the application of her counsel today is a matter of principle. The key questions to ask are: 1. **Does the attire maintain a clear distinction?** In a culture where many styles of pants are designed specifically for women and are distinct from men's styles, does a particular pair of jeans or trousers still blur the lines that God established? 2. **Is it modest?** Clothing, whether a skirt, dress, or pants, must be modest. It should not be tight-fitting, revealing, or designed to draw undue attention to the body. 3. **Is it appropriate and healthful?** The clothing should be suitable for the occasion and promote physical well-being. In summary, Ellen White's writings do not contain a direct prohibition of "jeans and trousers on ladies." Instead, they provide timeless, Bible-based principles: * **Maintain a clear distinction** between male and female attire. * Uphold the standard of **modesty**. * Choose clothing that is **healthful and appropriate**. The application of these principles to modern clothing is a matter for prayerful consideration, ensuring that one's appearance honors God and clearly identifies one's gender.

Excellent question. It moves from specific "what to do" questions to the foundational "how to be." To live as an Adventist in a way that glorifies God holistically is to integrate faith into every aspect of life—spiritual, physical, mental, and social. It's based on the biblical principle: "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). Based on the writings of Ellen White, here is a holistic framework for a life that glorifies God. ### 1. A Life of Spiritual Connection This is the foundation. Everything else flows from a vibrant, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. * **Daily Communion:** The day must begin and end with God. This is non-negotiable for spiritual health. * "Consecrate yourself to God in the morning; make this your very first work. Let your prayer be, ‘Take me, O Lord, as wholly Thine. I lay all my plans at Thy feet. Use me today in Thy service. Abide with me, and let all my work be wrought in Thee.’ This is a daily matter. Each morning consecrate yourself to God for that day." (SC 70.1) * **Study of His Word:** The Bible is the guide for life, revealing God's character and will. * "We should not be satisfied with a superficial knowledge, but should seek to learn the full meaning of the words of truth, and to drink deep of the spirit of the holy oracles." (5T 266.1) * **Sabbath Delight:** The Sabbath is a weekly appointment with God for rest, worship, and relationship-building, not just a day of rules. * "The Sabbath is a sign of the relationship existing between God and His people, a sign that they are His loyal subjects... It is a golden clasp that unites God and His people." (6T 350.1) ### 2. A Life of Physical Well-Being (The Body Temple) Glorifying God holistically means caring for the body He created, recognizing it as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). * **Healthful Living:** This involves choosing a diet that promotes health and clarity of mind, such as a plant-based diet, and avoiding substances that harm the body. * "True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful and to use judiciously that which is healthful." (PP 562.2) * "Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator." (MH 296.1) * **Active Lifestyle:** God designed our bodies for activity. Regular exercise is essential for physical and mental health. * "Inaction is a fruitful cause of disease. Exercise quickens and equalizes the circulation of the blood... but in idleness the blood does not circulate freely, and the changes in it, so necessary to life and health, do not take place." (MH 237.4) ### 3. A Life of Mental and Emotional Purity What we allow into our minds shapes our character. Glorifying God involves guarding the avenues of the soul. * **Guarding the Thoughts:** We are to actively choose what we think about, focusing on that which is pure and uplifting. * "We have a work to do to resist temptation. Those who would not fall a prey to Satan’s devices must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts." (PP 460.1) * **Wholesome Recreation:** Recreation is necessary, but it should be chosen to refresh and ennoble, not to degrade or distract from our divine purpose. * "The Christian is to be a diligent worker. There is a necessity for recreation. But... recreation should be sought that will tend to elevate and ennoble, and will fit us for the more successful performance of the duties of practical life." (CTBH 100.2) ### 4. A Life of Selfless Service and Witness A life centered on God will naturally overflow into love and service for others. This is the practical evidence of our faith. * **Being Christ's Hands and Feet:** The true Christian is actively looking for opportunities to help, encourage, and serve those around them. * "The world needs today what it needed nineteen hundred years ago—a revelation of Christ. A great work of reform is demanded, and it is only through the grace of Christ that the work of restoration, physical, mental, and spiritual, can be accomplished." (MH 143.3) * **Integrity in All Things:** A Christian's life is their most powerful sermon. Honesty and integrity in work, business, and relationships bring glory to God. * "The life of the true believer reveals an indwelling Saviour. The follower of Jesus is Christlike in spirit and in temper... His whole life is a testimony to the power of the grace of Christ." (7T 67.2) In essence, to live as an Adventist who glorifies God holistically is to live a life of **conscious, loving surrender**. It is to ask in every situation—what I eat, what I watch, how I speak, how I spend my time and money—"Will this honor my Creator and Saviour?" It is a life where every part, from prayer to work to rest, is integrated into one joyful purpose: to reflect the character of the One who gave everything for us.