68
Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene
mothers study to supply the table with the most simple, healthful
food, in order that the digestive organs may not be weakened, the
nerves unbalanced, or the instruction which they give their children
counteracted.
Satan sees that he cannot have so great power over minds when
the appetite is kept under control as when it is indulged, and he is
constantly working to lead men to indulgence. Under the influence
of unhealthful food, the conscience becomes stupefied, the mind is
darkened, and its susceptibility to impressions is impaired. But the
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guilt of the transgressor is not lessened because the conscience has
been violated till it has become insensible.
Since a healthy state of mind depends upon the normal condition of
the vital forces, what care should be exercised that neither stimulants
nor narcotics be used! Yet we see that a large number of those who
profess to be Christians are using tobacco. They deplore the evils
of intemperance; yet while speaking against the use of liquors, these
very men will eject the juice of tobacco. There must be a change
of sentiment with reference to tobacco-using before the root of the
evil will be reached. We press the subject still closer. Tea and coffee
are fostering the appetite for stronger stimulants. And then we come
still closer home, to the preparation of food, and ask, Is temperance
practiced in all things? are the reforms which are essential to health
and happiness carried out here?
Every true Christian will have control of his appetites and passions.
Unless he is free from the bondage of appetite, he cannot be a true,
obedient servant of Christ. The indulgence of appetite and passion
blunts the effect of truth upon the heart. It is impossible for the spirit
and power of the truth to sanctify a man, soul, body, and spirit, when
he is controlled by sensual desires.
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