MH page 129

“They which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:24 . In the warfare in which we are engaged, all may win who will discipline themselves by obedience to right principles. The practice of these principles in the details of life is too often looked upon as unimportant—a matter too trivial to demand attention. But in view of the issues at stake, nothing with which we have to do is small. Every act casts its weight into the scale that determines life's victory or defeat. The scripture bids us, “So run, that ye may obtain.” Verse 24 .

Self-discipline and adherence to right principles in daily life details are essential for achieving success and victory. Focuses on spiritual perseverance and the importance of daily discipline.

With our first parents, intemperate desire resulted in the loss of Eden. Temperance in all things has more to do with our restoration to Eden than men realize.

Intemperate desire leads to loss and downfall, while temperance in all things is vital for restoration. Connects biblical history and temperance concepts to spiritual and human restoration.

Pointing to the self-denial practiced by the contestants in the ancient Greek games, the apostle Paul writes: “Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” Verses 25-27 .

Quoting biblical scripture on self-mastery, temperance, and physical subjection modeled after athletic discipline. Consists largely of scriptural quotation regarding bodily discipline and temperance.

The progress of reform depends upon a clear recognition of fundamental truth. While, on the one hand, danger lurks in a narrow philosophy and a hard, cold orthodoxy, on the other hand there is great danger in a careless liberalism. The foundation of all enduring reform is the law of God. We are to present in clear, distinct lines the need of obeying this law. Its principles must be kept before the people. They are as everlasting and inexorable as God Himself.

Enduring reform is founded upon the law of God and the clear presentation of its eternal principles. The paragraph discusses moral reform and divine law in spiritual and theological terms without making empirical medical assertions.

One of the most deplorable effects of the original apostasy was the loss of man's power of self-control. Only as this power is regained can there be real progress.

The original apostasy caused a loss of self-control, and regaining this power is necessary for real progress. It combines a theological narrative regarding the original apostasy with an empirical claim about self-regulation and personal progress.