Wednesday's Lesson - A Balanced Diet.

"Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way. Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags" (Prov. 23:19-21). What important health principle do we find in these verses? How can we learn to apply this principle to ourselves, in the area of health and temperance?

When we look at this passage in proverbs we understand that the proper control of the appetite is an exercise in wisdom. Those who have an insatiable desire for more will eventually be found poverty stricken. Gluttony is something which affects the entire life.

For our health we must understand that when we consume things in excess it deteriorates our senses and our morals. Paul gives us a window into how we may be able to control our appetites.

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything thing through Him who gives me strength.( Phil 4: 11 - 13)

Our church does not make vegetarianism a test of fellowship. And it should not either. Many faithful Adventists choose not to be vegetarians. What, though, are the advantages of being a vegetarian, if you are in a position to get enough of the right foods for a proper diet?

As a thinker I relish the times when I have clarity of thought. I believe a change to a vegetarian diet has helped my understanding of concepts and ideas. A vegetarian diet also helps to properly control weight. Life style change is the best way to ensure lasting changes to your health. Health must be moved past the place of things we do, to place of things we become.

Prayer: Father thank you for all that you have done. Please help to learn to be content. Thank you in Jesus name amen.