p. 191 | Moderation

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 28, 1871

Moderation.

“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” Phil. 5:5.

The world is full of excesses. In its greed of gain; its revelings; its lusts; its towering ambition for power or praise of men; its over-reaching hand in matters of trade; its pride and appetites,—everywhere, in fact, its excesses are apparent. In these things the Christian must exhibit a contrary spirit. Having crucified the old man with his deeds, he must manifest the spirit of the new man, Christ Jesus. This spirit is one of moderation or evenness. His passions are to be subdued; his appetites curbed. He is not to make haste to get rich, but to meet his coming Lord. In short, he must realize that “the Lord is at hand,” and mold all his conduct in conformity with this great truth. Believing that Jesus is near, he cannot indulge in these immoderate exhibitions so common to the world. The daily work of the Christian is to crush out all worldly inclinations, to “keep his body under” as did Paul, and let the spiritual nature of Christ rule triumphantly at all times. In this way can he gain the victory and be prepared to meet his Lord with joy.

Then again we must remember the effect that our conduct has upon unconverted men. “Let your moderation be known to all men.” It is to shine out in the world as a light in a dark spot, so that others seeing our good works may learn to glorify our Father which is in Heaven. It is double acting, so to speak. It not only blesses the actor, but those on whom his actions shine. How many have been hindered from accepting the gospel of salvation because they viewed it through the lives of its professed believers, and saw works that were dark and treacherous! Such conduct is to be lamented. How is it with you, brethren? Are you blocking the wheels of the gospel car by your unchristian conduct? Remember you are closely watched. You are weighed in the balances daily by observing men, as well as by your Heavenly Father. Be careful, and watch unto prayer. Let your conduct be such as becometh saints who are waiting for the coming of that Lord who is at hand. Then you will not bring reproach upon the cause of Christ, but your Father in Heaven will be glorified by your praiseworthy service. In all things let your moderation be known.—The Restitution.