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Christian Behavior
We are called to be a godly people who think,
feel, and act in harmony with the principles of heaven. For the Spirit to
recreate in us the character of our Lord we involve ourselves only in those
things which will produce Christlike purity, health, and joy in our lives. This
means that our amusement and entertainment should meet the highest standards of
Christian taste and beauty. While recognizing cultural differences, our dress
is to be simple, modest, and neat, befitting those whose true beauty does not
consist of outward adornment but in the imperishable ornament of a gentle and
quiet spirit. It also means that because our bodies are the temples of the Holy
Spirit, we are to care for them intelligently. Along with adequate exercise and
rest, we are to adopt the most healthful diet possible and abstain from the
unclean foods identified in the Scriptures. Since alcoholic beverages, tobacco,
and the irresponsible use of drugs and narcotics are harmful to our bodies, we
are to abstain from them as well. Instead, we are to engage in whatever brings
our thoughts and bodies into the discipline of Christ, who desires our
wholesomeness, joy, and goodness. |
