[b]Many dig their graves, with their teeth![/b](Thomas Watson, "The Duty of Self-Denial" 1675)More are hurt by excess in lawful things--than by meddling with sinful things. More are killed by wine--than by poison. Many make their belly their god, Philippians 3:19. And to this god, they pour their drink offerings!One writes of a fish whose heart is in his belly. This is an emblem of epicures--whose heart is in their belly; they are devoted to their appetite. Excess in food or drink-- clouds the mind, chokes holy affections, provokes lust, and shortens life! Many dig their graves, with their teeth! Seneca could say he was born to higher things--than to be a slave to his body. What a shame is it--that the soul, that princely part, which sways the scepter of reason, should be enslaved to the brutish part! What has God given conscience for--but to be a golden bridle to check the inordinacy of the appetite! Deny the sinful cravings of the flesh!"I beat my body and make it my slave." 1 Cor. 9:27
_________________SI Moderator - Greg Gordon
Excellent post.The subject of the stomach being the master is so true for many Christians to the point of no longer fasting.We eat more than we need, and for what? Only because we can, I guess.We don't seem to know what self-denial means.Were we to read and live Isaiah 58, God would be glorified and that which we long to see take place in our lives and in the Church would take place sooner.God will do it.God bless.