Overeating and Control of Appetite
377
a short time, and give the stomach chance to rest. Reduce the feverish
state of the system by a careful and understanding application of
water. These efforts will help nature in her struggle to free the system
of impurities. But generally the persons who suffer pain become
impatient. They are not willing to use self-denial, and suffering a little
from hunger.
The Facts of Faith 2:145
Those who will gratify their appetite, and then suffer because of
their intemperance, and take drugs to relieve them may be assured that
God will not interpose to save health and life which is so recklessly
periled. The cause has produced the effect. Many, as their last resort,
follow the directions in the word of God, and request the prayers of
the elders of the church for their restoration to health. God does not
see fit to answer prayers offered in behalf of such, for He knows that
if they should be restored to health, they would again sacrifice it upon
the altar of unhealthy appetite.
Testimonies for the Church 1:486-4878
Gluttony is the prevailing sin of this age. Lustful appetite makes
slaves of men and women, and beclouds their intellects and stupefies
their moral sensibilities to such a degree that the sacred, elevated truths
of God’s word are not appreciated. The lower propensities have ruled
men and women.
In order to be fitted for translation, the people of God must know
themselves. They must understand in regard to their own physical
frames, that they may be able with the psalmist to exclaim, “I will
praise Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” They should
ever have the appetite in subjection to the moral and intellectual organs.
The body should be servant to the mind, and not the mind to the body.
Testimonies for the Church 2:38
Esau lusted for a favorite dish, and sacrificed his birthright to
gratify appetite. After his lustful appetite had been gratified, he saw his
folly, but found no space for repentance though he sought it carefully
and with tears. There are very many who are like Esau. He represents
a class who have a special, valuable blessing within their reach,—the