Several generations of youth have been nourished by this uncompromising call to duty, purity, and service. The author, who began her ministry when only 17 years of age, invites Seventh-day Adventist youth to examine their reading, dress, music, and social life, and discard cheap amusements that retard spiritual progress. She examines those fundamental traits of character that make for success or failure in the spiritual life, and discusses practical subjects such as home and parents, health, courtship and marriage, and how to recognize true love.

This bracing challenge to honor God with a self-controlled life will inspire many to join the army of dedicated youth who "climb the shining way," who aim to "stand upon the summit of intellectual greatness" and serve their God by dreaming dreams.