Smoking “to the Glory of God.”
By W. C. G.
MR. SPURGEON is reported to have said that he “hoped by the grace of God to enjoy a good cigar, and smoke to the glory of God before going to bed.” The newspapers took up the remark, and quoted it with evident gusto, which called forth an explanation from Mr. Spurgeon, in which he denied any intention to use the words triflingly, but demurred “altogether, and most positively to the statement that to smoke tobacco is in itself a sin.” He justifies himself in its use by the assertion that a cigar has relieved intense pain, soothed “a weary brain” and given him “calm, refreshing sleep,” and thus led him to feel “grateful to God,” and to “bless his name.” What logic! Does he not know that every tobacco sot will hail his defense with delight? If the great Spurgeon can smoke “to the glory of God,” mothers need never reprove their sons for thus seeking to “honor the Lord” in their youthful days! And what better defense could the toper have for his grog? Does not liquor also “relieve intense pain, soothe a weary brain” and bring sleep? How little of the spirit of the apostle Paul is here exhibited. Mr. Spurgeon knows, or ought to know, that tobacco is the physical, mental, and moral ruin of thousands, and although he may fondly imagine that it does not injure him, he ought for the sake of his “weaker brother,” if for no other consideration, give the weight of his influence against the vile weed. W. C. G.