“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
The word temperance, when used in the context of health, has three very distinct meanings: moderation in the use of that which is good; total abstinence from that which is harmful; and self control.
Daniel, an Old Testament Bible hero and writer of the book of Daniel, is an excellent example of one who practiced abstemiousness in his dietary habits. During his three years of training, Daniel along with his three associates maintained his abstemious habits, his allegiance to God, and his constant dependence upon God’s power. When the time came for Daniel and his three companions to appear before the King to be examined with the many other candidates, none could begin to compare with Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Physically, they were far superior to their peers, and mentally, their wisdom and understanding were considered by the King as ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers in his realm. (See Daniel 1:3-21).
Those today who, like Daniel and his three associates will honor the laws of health and be temperate in all things, will be rewarded with calm nerves, a clear mind, unimpaired judgment, keen perception and physical strength and health. These are of more value than any silver or gold.
Always remember, God blesses those who eat to live, not merely live to eat. “And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).
