Articles
T is for...What?
The NEWSTART letter of the month (T) encompasses a health principle least desired by many of us – yes, even me when it comes to food. But based on the successful loss of half my New Year’s resolution this year, which I could not have enjoyed without this principle, I decided that “my desire†must really become subject to my outlook. Therefore, I have made a deliberate change in my thought process. I am now ecstatic about this “undesirable†principle!
You’re probably thinking, “All right, Cindy, just cut to the chase!†OK; “T†is for Temperance, which is so unpopular these days that many, especially the younger generations, may not have even heard the term before. The best overall definition is that of moderation, or self-control, in all things, which includes eliminating anything that may cause deleterious effects on mind, body, or quality of life, including relationships. Temperance is all about “appetite,†and we will discuss more than one kind in this article.
Today there are few indulgences that are not available at our fingertips, which can be a wonderful blessing – and a curse. It is impossible to guess which area of life is most affected by the lack of temperance, but I can tell you with confidence that we are all affected.
Gluttony may be the most acceptable intemperance in civilized society – and in the church. Yet, this isn’t a new vice. According to Proverbs 23:21, drunkards and gluttons would often lose their wealth due to the stupor created by each vice. In fact, the Bible even mentions that kingdoms were needlessly lost due to unwonted feasting and revelry.
Few recognize that their “stupor†or lack of energy is directly related to overeating. This lack of energy contributes to a lack of motivation, in turn creating inactivity, which compounds weight gain. Weight gain perpetuates an even more sedentary lifestyle. It becomes a vicious cycle that is broken only by a determined change in lifestyle, by the grace of God.
Temperance societies were a big part of community during prohibition years. Historically, the healthy choice regarding alcoholic beverages was considered total abstinence – being a “teetotaler.†The touted benefits of alcoholic beverages can be derived from the fresh fruit juice of the same vine without the deleterious affects of alcohol, which include loss of brain cells, budget, self-control, and all too often, life. Being in a cosmic battle, we can’t afford to lose a single one of the blessings mentioned above, especially brain cells. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise†(Proverbs 20:1).
The most common, socially acceptable, “less than good for us†substances in circulation are caffeine, which is chemically related to nicotine, morphine, cocaine, and heroine. Caffeine affects cardiac performance, brain function, metabolism, nerves, kidneys, and other critical systems. When choosing healthy habits, anything capable of killing brain cells should be avoided.
Temperance dictates that we use moderation in our natural appetites or passions as well, meaning physical and sexual desires. Clearly defined, this would mean the appropriate place, the appropriate time, the appropriate person . . . always. Intemperance means anything outside of those parameters at any time. Based on Biblical principles, if you are not married, temperance would be identified as sexual abstinence – complete avoidance.
Modesty, the respectful practice of covering any body part that could tempt another, is also a part of temperance. If guys were to write a list to avoid temptation, covered areas would include anything under a swimsuit as well as shoulders, cleavage, navels, low back skin, thighs, and tight clothes that betray the body part beneath. As none of us ladies want to be the means of downfall, even warm days may not warrant putting another in the position of temptation. What girls may consider tastefully designed dresses might still create discomfort for even the godliest man in the congregation on Sabbath morning if it doesn’t fully cover the shoulders. It’s not a matter of him harboring inappropriate thoughts. Rather, it places a burden on him to avert his eyes from looking in your direction all morning in order to be respectful and not place himself in a position of temptation. Be cautious about bare skin, since thought, and not just action, dictates immorality and intemperance.
In Matthew 5:28, Christ spoke of lust as a violation of the 7th commandment, which brings me to the topic of pornography. This huge snare of the devil exists even within the church. A temperate member of God’s congregation will seek to give up the vice that separates from God. If unable to promptly overcome, he or she should confess, seeking the council and prayers of the church pastor and elders for loving support and accountability.
The battles of salvation can be ever so severe, yet Christ already won the victory at the cross! “Without Me, ye can do nothing†(John 15:5). “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith†(1 John 5:4). “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world†(1 John 4:4). “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new†(II Corinthians 5:17). No matter which appetite is under attack, victory is won only when we lose confidence in our own merits and depend wholly upon God. Victory comes only with an immediate plea to Christ at the moment of temptation. Rules or commands don’t keep us on the godly path, but love and appreciation for our Heavenly Father puts within us a desire to call on His name and request support from Him. He then gives us the desire and strength to sacrifice our own worldly lusts. Through Christ, we overcome by a changed heart, which means that you can win . . . if you so desire. That’s a promise!
Whether temperance is perceived as a deprivation or privilege is a key factor of success, and only we can make that determination. No matter the kind of appetite we battle, temperance benefits our body, mind, and soul. Moderate choices make us healthy, happy, and foster longevity. As you can see, in making temperate choices, we dictate the quality in every aspect of life every day from this moment forward and into eternity. By the grace of God, we also represent Christ in our self-sacrifice, bringing more into the fold. I wish us all the temperance that brings success in Jesus!
At about 12 pounds down, here’s to temperance – and a really good feeling about life!
Our topic next month requires minimal effort, isn’t likely to be used in excess, and is rarely distasteful. Next month: “A†is for air.