1st Timothy 3:1 This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desires a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, sober, of good behavior. 3 Not given to wine.
[Counsels On Diet And Foods pp 141] Our preachers are not particular enough in regard to their habits of eating. Some are reformers only in name. They have no rules by which to regulate their diet, but indulge in eating fruit or nuts between their meals, and thus impose too heavy burdens upon the digestive organs. Some eat three meals a day, when two would be more conducive to physical and spiritual health.
If the laws which God has made to govern the physical system are violated, the penalty must surely follow. Because of imprudence in eating, the senses of some seem to be half paralyzed, and they are sluggish and sleepy. These pale-faced ministers who are suffering in consequence of selfish indulgence of the appetite, are no recommendation of health reform. When suffering from overwork, it would be much better to drop out a meal occasionally, and thus give nature a chance to rally.
Our laborers could do more by their example to advance health reform than by preaching it. When elaborate preparations are made for them by well-meaning friends, they are strongly tempted to disregard principle; but by refusing the dainty dishes, the rich condiments, the tea and coffee, they may prove themselves to be practical health reformers. Some are now suffering in consequence of transgressing the laws of life, thus causing a stigma to rest on the cause of health reform.
Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seems right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
May the Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!