Controlling the Appetites and Passions
23
When those who are in the habit of using tea, coffee, tobacco,
opium, or spirituous liquors are deprived of the accustomed indul-
gence, they find it impossible to engage with interest and zeal in the
worship of God. Divine grace seems powerless to enliven or spiri-
tualize their prayers or their testimonies. These professed Christians
should consider the source of their enjoyment. Is it from above, or
from beneath?
To a user of stimulants, everything seems insipid without the dar-
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ling indulgence. This deadens the natural sensibilities of both body
and mind and renders him less susceptible to the influence of the
Holy Spirit. In the absence of the usual stimulant he has a hunger-
ing of body and soul, not for righteousness, not for holiness, not for
God’s presence, but for his cherished idol. In the indulgence of hurtful
lusts, professed Christians are daily enfeebling their powers, making it
impossible to glorify God.
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