Tobacco and Tea by D. T. Bourdeau

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 17, 1863

Tobacco and Tea.

By D. T. Bourdeau

It is a matter of encouragement to God's people, that as far as organization and church order are adopted and carried out among us, tobacco and tea are being laid aside. It has often been proved, and the testimonies to the church teach, that these articles are injurious and expensive, and must be overcome in order that it may be said that we have cleansed ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and that whether we eat or drink, we do all to the glory of God.

If tea and tobacco are injurious to our health, as far as we use these herbs, we violate a principle of the sixth commandment, which says, "Thou shalt not kill." And let us remember that we profess to show a respect for all of God's commandments.

Again, if we see the light on this subject, and manifest more willingness to sacrifice our means in buying tea and tobacco, that we may satisfy an unsanctified appetite, than we do to promote the well being of our fellow-creatures and the glory of God, do we not show plainly that our affections are not limited to the real worth of things, and that we do not love God supremely, and our fellow-creatures as we love ourselves?

How plain it is that self, tea, and tobacco, etc., are idols, to which many bow and sacrifice. Some can afford to pay several dollars a year to satisfy their appetite for tobacco and tea; but they think they can not give anything for the advancement of the cause of truth, for religious works, which they very much need, or for the Review, which is a source of so much light, comfort and encouragement to the remnant, and by which we can keep pace with the church, in the way of holiness.

It is not necessary to make lengthy remarks to show that with some a reform is necessary on this point, and that the appetite should be overcome. This appetite is not natural but artificial and injurious. In this respect it is like the appetite for spirituous liquors. Some feel worse for not using tea and tobacco. They have had these articles, and their nature demands them. While using them they have been stimulated, and have, perhaps, for the time being, lost the sense of pain; but they have not been really and permanently benefited. To say the least, the injury has been as great as the benefit, so that in reality no advantage has been gained.

If we would overcome this appetite, we should avoid that which would lead us to use the articles that feed it. Hence if a friend presents us a pipe, or a quid of tobacco, or a cup of tea, we should have decision enough to say, No. Here is where many have erred, and have been overcome. A little decision here would save much trouble and perplexity. Tea should not be used as a beverage. To use it as a beverage would keep up the appetite for it. Those who really need warm drink, can use articles that are not prepared with poison, and which are more congenial to our nature.

Again, when we are perplexed in regard to the propriety of using tea or tobacco, we should keep on the safe side, and see that our example does not encourage the use of and appetite for tea and tobacco, in others, and cause the good way to be evil spoken of. I prefer to deny myself even of that which might be a benefit to me, rather than to cause others, by my example, to do that which is not lawful.

The idea that there is a difference between tea and tobacco is not a sufficient reason why tea should not be overcome as well as tobacco. It will not do for us to excuse ourselves by saying that one sin is not so great as another. We must overcome every sin. A pure people will the Lord present to the Father at his coming; and now is the time for us to purify ourselves. If we lower the standard to suit the taste of one, why not lower it to suit the taste of another, and so on, till the work of reform stops among us? No, the standard must be raised, and God's people will rally around it.

The fact that the blessing of the Lord does attend those who follow the body in this reform, is good evidence that our position is correct. We truly sympathize with those who are trying to overcome, and would say to such, be of good courage. Look at the sufferings of God's people in the past, and murmur not. Look at the trials and sufferings that Jesus endured that he might sanctify a people unto God, and remember that he can be touched with the feeling of your infirmities, and that his grace is sufficient. Limit not his power. Master your appetite, or it will master you. You have not yet resisted unto blood striving against sin. "If at first you don't succeed, try, try

again." You can yet obtain the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The following lines from sister R. Smith are appropriate on this point:

"Tea, coffee, and tobacco, lay aside forevermore; The High and Holy One will help, if we his aid implore, He'll help to get the victory; and victory must be gained, Or no resolve to break the hold will ever be maintained.

"Not victory for a single day, a week, a month, a year, But victory that shall stand the test till Jesus shall appear, A victory that will overcome inordinate desire To gratify perverted taste, by habit made, entire.

"The conflict rages fiercely—here a victory, then defeat; But faint not, we can overcome, and make our foes retreat. An armor for us is prepared, with helmet and a shield, And One who mighty is to save, is with us on the field."

Be as consistent in this matter as you would in other matters. See that you do all you can to help yourselves, and the Lord will do for you what you cannot do for yourselves. When the temptation presses upon you and threatens to captivate and overcome your appetite, then flee to the Lord in prayer, and ask him for overcoming grace. In doing this you will resist the temptation, obtain strength, and get an experience that will be a blessing to you and to others. You will learn the art of obtaining strength to help in time of need, and be enabled to comfort others with the comfort wherewith you are comforted of God D. T. BOURDEAU.