Read Ellen G. White, "Helping the Tempted," pp.161-169, and "Working for the Intemperate," pp. 171-182 in The Ministry of Healing.

Despite the growing problem of obesity in many parts of the world, gluttony is encouraged and accepted. Type 2 diabetes is becoming more of a problem because of diet, obesity, and lack of exercise, affecting even teenagers. Addiction to Internet activities and pornography has fostered unthinkable cases of violence and sexual abuse. Tobacco continues to be the largest single cause of preventable death throughout the world—over 5 million per year. There are warnings on the cigarette boxes; these go unheeded by many. Information is not preventive if we do not act on it.

God has given, through various sources, consistent guidance on how to be healthy, happy, and holy. Blessed we will be if we follow the counsel.

" 'Have faith in the Lord your God, and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful' " (2 Chron. 20:20, NIV).

"There are few who realize as they should how much their habits of diet have to do with their health, their character, their usefulness in this world, and their eternal destiny. The appetite should ever be in subjection to the moral and intellectual powers. The body should be servant to the mind, and not the mind to the body."—Ellen G. White, Child Guidance, p. 398.

Look at this quote taken from above: "There are few who realize as they should how much their habits of diet have to do with their health, their character, their usefulness in this world, and their eternal destiny." What does this mean in practical terms?

How does the society in which you live impact attitudes toward temperance? Does it encourage temperance, or does it promote attitudes that make temperance seem outdated? Why is it important to be aware of these influences, and, if needed, how can you learn to help others, especially the young, be persuaded by them?

If possible, have a health expert speak in class about the right balance of things like diet, exercise, sleep, and sunlight.

Some people have the mentality that if a little is good for you, then a lot must be even better. For example, if a little salt is good for the body, then a lot must be even better for it. What's wrong with that kind of thinking?