Moderation

Godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come (1 Timothy 4:8).

"Moderation in all things"—some people think that these words come from the Bible. However, the truth of the matter is that they are first found in the writings of the Greek historian Hesiod who lived almost 3,000 years ago; the words he wrote are these: 'Observe due measure, moderation is best in all things.'

The teaching "Moderation in all things" is not found in the Bible. In some cases, the Bible does teach moderation; in Proverbs 30:8 this prayer to God is recorded: give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, `Who is the LORD?' Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God. In his first letter to Timothy, Paul suggests that a little wine can be good to settle the stomach, but also warns against excessive drinking (5:23 & 3:8). In some things, the Bible does advocate moderation.

But moderation in all things is an idea that comes from man, not God. Paul writes, I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil (Romans 16:19). There are many things in this world that God does not want us to sample, even in moderation. Marriage is a life-long pledge of faithfulness; God expects that husbands and wives never cheat on their wedding vows. There is never an occasion where telling lies is acceptable; speaking of the sinless Son of God, Peter wrote: he never deceived anyone (1 Peter 2:22). It is never appropriate to treat people in authority with disrespect; even when He was on trial for His life, Jesus always spoke respectfully to the evil men who were abusing their positions of power. When it comes to anything sinful, moderation is not acceptable to God.

At the same time, moderation should not limit our activities as followers of Christ. Some people feel that an hour a week in church is more than enough time for God; however, Paul praised the Christians in Berea because they studied the Bible every day (Acts 17:11). Some people are content to just pray before meals, and maybe when they go to bed; however, Paul tells us to pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17). And in 2nd Thessalonians 3:13 the apostle writes: As for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. When it comes to the time and energy we commit to the Lord, there can never be "too much of a good thing." God gives to us without moderation; we should give our lives to Him in the same way.