Text: Prov 25:16 ESV

16 If you have found honey, eat only enough for you, lest you have your fill of it and vomit it.

-Prov 25:16 ESV

THE VIRTUE OF MODERATION

At first glance, this verse warns us about the danger of over-eating, which may result to an upset stomach. However, the meaning of this proverb is broader than just eating food. The general idea is like to our modern English expressions "too much of a good thing." In reasonable doses, many things can be enjoyed (1 Tim 4:4), including many types of food, drink, and pleasure (Psa 16:11; Deut 26:9; 1 Cor 10:30–33; Col 2:18). But even good things become harmful when they're overused, idolized, or turn into addictions (1 Cor 6:12; 1 John 2:15). Moderation is the key to appropriate enjoyment of those things God provides for our legitimate enjoyment.

Since the Old Testament times, honey has been valued as a deliciously sweet food until today. Like most sugar-rich substances, too much honey can cause nausea and vomiting. What applied to honey in the ancient world applies today to modern eating habits. Sweet foods are enjoyable for most people, but too much can lead to stomach distress. This is also applied to wine and meat. Wine was a common beverage in Bible times but overindulging in wine could lead to drunkenness. Thus, Solomon warns about drinking wine, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise."[Prov 20:1] The apostle Paul advised Timothy to drink just a little wine for his stomach's sake and for his frequent ailments (1 Tim 5:23). There, again, moderation is the key to properly enjoying God's creation.

Today, let’s remember that God gives us liberty to enjoy His blessings and creation. However, this is not promoting over-indulgence. We are bound to pleasure and enjoy the things He provides until a certain limit – until it does not edify others and we are sinning. Moderation is the key.

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