Knowledge Must Precede Temperance
By L. A. Hansen
True Temperance Requires Study and Thought—It Cannot Be Obtained by Chance In the rule of addition for Christian character given by Peter (see 2 Peter 1:5-7), knowledge precedes temperance. This scripture gives to temperance its place as one of the essential elements of godliness, and identifies it in its broad scope. Bible temperance means more than absence from intoxicants. It comprehends temperance in all things, and in its practice, becomes one of the qualities of the Christian life. There is a logical sequence in the order of Christian graces as given in the text. Temperance is not a product of ignorance. It is not the result of blind chance or of a hit-or-miss course. It is not something we may fall upon by accident, or trust to luck to bring our way. FACTS AND INFORMATION REQUIRED
Temperance in its truest and broadest sense is associated with intelligent study and with real knowledge. It deals with facts and information. It calls into use our mental faculties, and the exercise of reason and common sense. The principles of temperance are principles of health, and embrace all principles of the physical reform. Thus there is involved in the study of health and temperance a study of physical laws. We should become intelligent in things pertaining to our bodies and their care, and to the essentials of all healthful living. It is knowledge that we should acquire and to which we are to add temperance. We must not trust to mere guess or supposition. We must not rely on cult or fad for the practice of health and temperance principles. Neither should we be satisfied with hearsay or the mere experience of another. We must have our own experience, based upon our own knowledge of our own needs. TEMPERANCE AND CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE
In other words, temperance is a matter of personal Christian experience leading to an individual attainment of patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and that greatest of virtues, charity. Without temperance, the other virtues are impossible. It is in the course of their attainment. It cannot be omitted or passed over. Many are ignorant of the laws of health and temperance. It becomes a work of true education to make these laws plain, and teach people how to live in harmony with them. The conscience is to be awakened and the intellect aroused to the importance of right physical living and its relation to godliness. Gospel work cannot ignore the need of the world for knowledge regarding the results of violating natural laws, which are God's laws. It must comprehend giving help to reach specific needs. Public and personal instruction is to be given, health lectures are to be held, publications are to be issued. Such subjects as hygiene, sanitation, cleanliness, healthful cookery, correct dress, ventilation, exercise, rest, proper sleep, and other topics on physical welfare, have their place in presenting the requirements of the laws of health. Fortunately, much good reading matter is available in assisting to a correct knowledge of health and temperance principles. Regular numbers of this paper contain many articles of consistent presentation of this important subject. The publishers issue a number of good publications dealing with it, and will gladly give information concerning other material that will be helpful.