“And Beside This”
19
hand, not only in places of vice but also in the homes of our land. Our
tables are spread with little regard for health or morality, and the crav-
ings of perverted appetite are indulged, to the detriment of physical
and mental strength. The people of God must take an opposite course
from the world. They must take up the warfare against these sinful
practices, deny appetite, and keep the lower nature in subjection. Said
the great apostle, “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.”
Importance of healthful diet
God has given us the fruits and grains of the earth for food, that
[19]
we might have unfevered blood, calm nerves, and clear minds. The
stimulating diet and drink of this day are not conducive to the best state
of health. Tea, coffee, and tobacco are all stimulating, and contain
poisons. They are not only unnecessary, but harmful, and should be
discarded if we would add to knowledge, temperance. We should live
by “every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” It is for us
to “search the scriptures,” and bring our habits into harmony with the
instruction of the Bible. We are admonished, “Whether therefore ye
eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
Round five: Patience
“And to temperance patience.” The need of becoming temperate is
made manifest as we try to take this step. It is next to an impossibility
for an intemperate person to be patient. We should make decided
efforts to be on the right side in every matter. We are on a battleground,
and Satan is striving for our souls. No impatient man or woman will
ever enter into the courts of heaven. We must not allow the natural
feelings to control our judgment. Many are quickly irritated, and their
words are sharp and bitter. They wound the hearts of those about
them, and make it apparent that the Spirit of Christ is not abiding in
their souls. The grace of Christ will bring the peace of God into your
homes; but many who profess the truth do not seem to realize that it is
an essential part of religion to become meek and lowly, tenderhearted
and forbearing.