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Temperance in All Things Is Essential, October 26
According to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be
ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be
magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
, NKJV.
There are many now under the shadow of death who have prepared to do a work
for the Master, but who have not felt that a sacred obligation rested upon them to
observe the laws of health. The laws of the physical system are indeed the laws of
God; but this fact seems to have been forgotten.
Some have limited themselves to a diet that cannot sustain them in health. They
have not provided nourishing food to take the place of injurious articles; and they
have not considered that tact and ingenuity must be exercised in preparing food
in the most healthful manner. The system must be properly nourished in order to
perform its work....
There are many in the world who indulge pernicious habits. Appetite is the law
that governs them; and because of their wrong habits, the moral sense is clouded,
and the power to discern sacred things is to a great extent destroyed. But it is
necessary for Christians to be strictly temperate. They should place their standard
high. Temperance in eating, drinking, and dressing is essential. Principle should
rule instead of appetite or fancy....
It means much to be true to God. He has claims upon all who are engaged in
His service. He desires that mind and body be preserved in the best condition of
health, every power and endowment under the divine control, and as vigorous as
careful, strictly temperate habits can make them. We are under obligation to God to
make an unreserved consecration of ourselves to Him, body and soul, with all the
faculties appreciated as His entrusted gifts, to be employed in His service. All our
energies and capabilities are to be constantly strengthened and improved during
this probationary period....
If we can arouse the moral sensibilities of our people on the subject of temper-
ance, a great victory will be gained. Temperance in all things of this life is to be
taught and practiced. Temperance in eating, drinking, sleeping, and dressing is one
of the grand principles of the religious life. Truth brought into the sanctuary of the
soul will guide in the treatment of the body. Nothing that concerns the health of the
human agent is to be regarded with indifference. Our eternal welfare depends upon
the use we make during this life of our time, strength, and influence.—
The Review
and Herald, June 11, 1914
.
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