Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)

Ellen White Calls for a Revival of Health Reform

That Sabbath, which marked a turning point in James White's experience, Ellen White spoke twice in the Michigan tent, which had been pitched on the west side of North Washington Street, about a half block from the publishing house. At the morning worship service her topic was health reform, and her address was a challenge to the church. Most likely reading from what she had written, she referred to the vision given in Rochester on December 25, 1865: 2BIO 139.3

I was shown that our Sabbathkeeping people have been negligent in acting upon the light which God has given in regard to the health reform, that there is yet a great work before us, and that as a people we have been too backward to follow in God's opening providence as He has chosen to lead us. 2BIO 139.4

I was shown that the work of health reform has scarcely been entered upon yet. While some feel deeply and act out their faith in the work, others remain indifferent and have scarcely taken the first step in reform.... 2BIO 139.5

The health reform, I was shown, is a part of the third angel's message and is just as closely connected with it as are the arm and hand with the human body. I saw that we as a people must make an advance move in this great work. Ministers and people must act in concert. God's people are not prepared for the loud cry of the third angel. They have a work to do for themselves which they should not leave for God to do for them.... 2BIO 139.6

In order to be fitted for translation, the people of God must know themselves. They must understand in regard to their own physical frames that they may be able with the psalmist to exclaim: “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” They should ever have the appetite in subjection to the moral and intellectual organs. The body should be servant to the mind, and not the mind to the body. 2BIO 140.1

I was shown that there is a much greater work before us than we as yet have any idea of, if we would ensure health by placing ourselves in the right relation to life.—Testimonies for the Church, 1:485-487 (published in 1867). 2BIO 140.2