Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Temperance - Honoring the body as the Temple of God
Proverbs 23:1-20
Today’s passage highlights the significance of temperance. Temperance in biblical terms refers to moderation in action, thought, and in the indulgence of the appetites or passions. Solomon warns the reader to guard themselves against the dangers of indulging in excessive drinking and eating. He asks the rich to refrain from harming the marginalized and voiceless. He also says that instructing children with gentle correction which will prevent them from destruction.
Verse 17 warns “Do not let your heart envy sinners…” Have you ever envied the prosperity of sinners, tempted to think that they are living an abundant life or found it difficult to watch them experiencing instant gratification for their sinning? Have you ever felt deflated and considered it all pointless? This is the exact scheme that Satan used in the Garden of Eden, in tempting Adam to delight in not what he was given but to frown upon what was withheld from him. The Bible tells us not to envy those who have no regard for God or see any need for Him.
If envy makes us think that what we have is not good enough, then the remedy is to “live in the fear of the Lord always”. Charles Spurgeon defines it as an inward awareness and indication of submission to our Heavenly Father. It is accomplished in reverence for God, a “childlike” trust in Him, through loving obedience, submission and adoration.
In order to help us abide by this healthy fear of the Lord, we must remember that “there is a future and your hope will not be cut off” (v 18). Remember to guard our hearts with the guarantee of salvation in Christ. Solomon through his profound wisdom instructs everyone to lead a life pleasing in the sight of the Lord, in fear and in knowledge of him. Let the Holy spirit guide us to lead a life of being holy, honoring the body and spirit in all aspects of life in this fallen world.
Prayer
Dear Lord, as partakers of your body and blood, help us to refrain from doing anything that destroys or relationship with You and follow a path of godly fear and wisdom. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Dear Lord, as partakers of your body and blood, help us to refrain from doing anything that destroys or relationship with You and follow a path of godly fear and wisdom. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
The world and its pleasures are momentary. A life centered in Christ is everlasting.
Dr. Sherin Varghese, Baltimore MTC, Maryland
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church
Dr. Sherin Varghese, Baltimore MTC, Maryland
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church