3 John 1:2 (KJV): Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

ABSTRACT

Dietary reform stands as a vital part of spiritual and physical well-being, particularly for us preparing for Christ’s return. Across faith traditions, the principles of self-control, stewardship, and holiness align with God’s original dietary plan. Scripture declares, “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The work of health reform is the Lord’s means for lessening suffering in our world and for purifying His church” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 526, 1938). The Bible further affirms, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones” (Proverbs 17:22, KJV). Sr. White adds, “Health is a treasure. Of all temporal possessions it is the most precious” (Counsels on Health, p. 504, 1923). Embracing these truths equips us to honor God fully in body and spirit. As we pursue this path of reform, what blueprint did God establish from the beginning for our nourishment?

RETURNING TO GOD’S IDEAL DIET

Dietary reform is a vital part of spiritual and physical well-being, particularly for those preparing for Christ’s return. Across faith traditions, the principles of self-control, stewardship, and holiness align with God’s original dietary plan. This blog explores the necessity of abandoning flesh foods, using scripture, Sr. White’s writings, and practical applications to inspire transformation. The Bible supports this foundation, stating, “Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4, KJV). Sr. White declares, “Our bodies are built up from the food we eat. There is a constant breaking down of the tissues of the body; every movement of every organ involves waste, and this waste is repaired from the food taken into the stomach” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 295, 1905). Scripture reinforces, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “In order to preserve health, we must form correct habits in eating and drinking” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 17, 1938). These principles guide us toward vibrant living in harmony with divine intent. How does God’s initial provision reveal His perfect design for our sustenance?

THE ORIGINAL DIET: A DIVINE BLUEPRINT

From the beginning, God’s plan for humanity included a plant-based diet. Genesis 1:29 declares, “I have given you every herb bearing seed… and every tree… yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.” This verse reflects God’s intent for humans to thrive on the earth’s natural bounty. Sr. White affirms, “God is trying to lead us back, step by step, to His original design—that man should subsist upon the natural products of the earth” (Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, p. 119). Daniel chose wisely when he requested, “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink” (Daniel 1:12, KJV). Sr. White explains, “The diet appointed to the human family in the beginning did not include animal food” (Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4a, p. 120, 1864). The prophet Isaiah promises, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land” (Isaiah 1:19, KJV). Sr. White states, “God gave our first parents the food He designed that the race should eat, and it was contrary to His will that man should crave or indulge an appetite for animal food” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 311, 1905). God’s blueprint fosters strength and harmony in creation. As we reflect on this divine provision, why does returning to it hold such urgency for our well-being? Flesh foods, often laden with toxins and diseases, weaken both body and spirit. The Israelites’ craving for flesh led to their spiritual decline, illustrating the consequences of deviating from God’s ideal. As Sr. White explains, “By departing from the plan divinely appointed for their diet, the Israelites suffered great loss… They did not reach God’s ideal of character” (Ministry of Healing, p. 312). Paul warns, “Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body” (1 Corinthians 6:13, KJV). Sr. White cautions, “The use of the flesh of animals tends to cause a grossness of body and to benumb the finer instincts of the mind” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 373, 1938). The apostle exhorts, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31, KJV). Sr. White declares, “Flesh meats will not be used among God’s people in the future” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, p. 423, 1901). Such choices impact our capacity for holy living. In light of these dangers, how does health reform become a sacred calling for those sharing God’s message?

HEALTH REFORM: A SPIRITUAL MANDATE

For those called to share God’s message, maintaining clarity of mind and purity of body is critical. Sr. White strongly counsels, “God’s people are to take a firm stand against meat eating. By the use of flesh-meat, the animal nature is strengthened, and the spiritual nature weakened” (Medical Ministry, pp. 278-279). Peter urges, “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul” (1 Peter 2:11, KJV). Sr. White asserts, “Meat is not essential for health or strength, else the Lord made a mistake when He provided food for Adam and Eve before their fall” (Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods, p. 118, 1928). Solomon advises, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city” (Proverbs 16:32, KJV). Sr. White reminds, “Let not any of our ministers set an evil example in the eating of flesh meat. Let them and their families live up to the light of health reform” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 377, 1938). Purity empowers effective witness. With this mandate in view, how does the community uphold these standards through leadership? The church bears a collective responsibility to embrace health reform. As she asserts, “The ministers must be converted before they can strengthen their brethren… A reformation is needed among the people, but it should first begin… with the ministers” (Testimonies for the Church, pp. 469-470). Leaders set the example, demonstrating through action the transformative power of aligning with God’s will. James teaches, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:26, KJV). Sr. White encourages, “In teaching health principles, keep before the mind the great object of reform,—that its purpose is to secure the highest development of body and mind and soul” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 481, 1938). The psalmist sings, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well” (Psalm 139:14, KJV). Sr. White states, “The health reform, I was shown, is a part of the third angel’s message, and is just as closely connected with it as the arm is with the body” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 85, 1868). Collective commitment strengthens our mission. Beyond diet alone, what other practices demand our careful examination?

ABANDONING HARMFUL PRACTICES

Health reform extends beyond flesh foods to other substances that cloud judgment and harm the body. Sr. White admonishes, “Let [flesh-meat] alone… All should bear a clear testimony against tea and coffee, never using them. They are narcotics, injurious alike to the brain and to the other organs” (Medical Ministry, p. 274). This comparison underscores the importance of complete abstinence from harmful substances. Timothy instructs, “Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous” (1 Timothy 3:3, KJV). Sr. White warns, “Tea, coffee, and tobacco are all stimulating, and contain poisons. They are not only unnecessary, but harmful, and should be discarded if we would add to physical stamina and mental and moral strength” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 425, 1938). Paul commands, “I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Corinthians 9:27, KJV). Sr. White declares, “Tea and coffee do not nourish the system. Their effect is produced before there has been time for digestion and assimilation, and what seems to be strength is an illusion” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 326, 1905). Abstinence clears the path for divine clarity. Through such discipline, how do we cultivate environments of mutual support? By eliminating such influences, we honor our role as stewards of God’s temple and prepare for a deeper communion with Him.

A GRADUAL BUT STEADY REFORM

Health reform is a journey requiring patience and determination. Sr. White reminds us, “Meat-eating will eventually be done away” among those awaiting the Lord’s return (Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, p. 119). This process mirrors the broader spiritual growth we experience as we align our lives with God’s character. Communally, we must support one another in this effort. Together, we can create environments where healthy choices are celebrated, and mutual encouragement replaces judgment. Paul encourages, “Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you” (Philippians 3:15, KJV). Sr. White advises, “A reform in their habits of eating and drinking is needed. But this reform cannot be made all at once. The change must be made gradually” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 284, 1938). The writer of Hebrews exhorts, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1, KJV). Sr. White notes, “We must lead the people along patiently and gradually, remembering the hole of the pit whence we were digged” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 468, 1938). Steady progress builds lasting transformation. In this shared journey, how does obedience deepen our spiritual vitality?

SPIRITUAL AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Adopting God’s dietary principles is more than a physical change; it is a spiritual act of obedience. Sr. White questions, “How can those… seeking to become pure… continue to use as food anything that has so harmful an effect on soul and body?” (Medical Ministry, p. 317). This rhetorical question challenges us to consider the broader implications of our choices. When we choose God’s way, we reflect His mercy and compassion, even toward animals. By treating creation with care, we align ourselves with His character, fostering a closer relationship with Him. Jesus teaches, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15, KJV). Sr. White observes, “True healing is always a manifestation of the power of God” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 113, 1905). David prays, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The connection between health reform and the third angel’s message is not incidental but integral” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 147, 1875). Obedience yields holistic renewal. As we integrate these principles, how does our commitment propel us toward readiness for Christ’s return?

The journey to health reform is both personal and communal. By following God’s dietary plan, we honor His design, strengthen our spiritual lives, and prepare for His return. As Sr. White warns, “The connection between health reform and the third angel’s message is not incidental but integral” (Testimonies for the Church, p. 469). Let us, as a church and as individuals, commit to this transformation. Together, we can reflect God’s love and holiness, inspiring others to join us on this path of reform and renewal. How will you take the first step today? Moses promises, “If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee” (Exodus 15:26, KJV). Sr. White inspires, “The progress of reform depends upon a clear recognition of fundamental truth” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 85, 1905). Solomon declares, “My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee” (Proverbs 3:1-2, KJV). Sr. White concludes, “God desires us to prosper in all things, and to have health even as our souls prosper” (Counsels on Health, p. 27, 1923). This commitment unites us in divine purpose.

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these truths on health reform, allowing them to shape my daily habits and priorities?

How can we adapt these principles on dietary stewardship to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from longtime community members to newcomers or those from varied backgrounds, without diluting scriptural depth?

What common misunderstandings about God’s health laws exist in our circles, and how can I address them compassionately using the Bible and Sr. White’s insights?

In practical terms, how can our gatherings and personal lives shine as examples of health reform, embodying Christ’s compassion and readiness for His return?