Stimulants
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as he abstains from drink. No intoxicant should pass his lips; then if
a disaster comes, men in responsible positions can do their best, and
meet their record with satisfaction, whatever may be the issue.—
The
Review and Herald, May 29, 1894
.
515. Liquor-drinking men may be seen everywhere. Their intellect
is enfeebled, their moral powers are weakened, their sensibilities are
benumbed, and the claims of God and heaven are not realized, eternal
things are not appreciated. The Bible declares that no drunkard shall
inherit the kingdom of God.... Intemperance of any kind is the worst
kind of selfishness.—
Testimonies for the Church 4:30, 31
.
Cure for the Liquor Habit
516. What cure would you advise for a person who thus indulges
a habit that is rebuked even by the beasts of the field? The word of
[115]
God has denounced it: no drunkard shall enter the kingdom of God.
What would you recommend to cure such an appetite? You would not
say, “You may use strong drink moderately. Continue within bounds,
but never indulge to excess.” You would rather say, “There is no such
thing as helping you unless you co-operate fully with my efforts, and
sign the pledge of total abstinence. You have by indulgence made your
habit second nature, and it cannot be controlled unless the moral power
shall be aroused, and you look unto Jesus, trusting in the grace he shall
give to overcome this unnatural craving.” You would say, “You have
lost your self-control. Your self-indulgence is not only a moral sin,
but it has become a physical disease. You are not your own; you are
God’s property. He has purchased you with an infinite price, and every
faculty is to be employed in his service. Keep your body in a healthy
condition to do his will; keep your intellect clear and active to think
candidly and critically, and to control all your powers.”—
Unpublished
Testimonies, October 12, 1896
.
Alcohol in Disease
517. The taste created for the disgusting, filthy poison, tobacco,
leads to the desire for stronger stimulants, as liquor, which is taken on
one plea or another, for some imaginary infirmity, or to prevent some
possible disease.—
Testimonies for the Church 4:30
.