On the journey out of Mormonism toward a biblical faith, you will have to deal with the issues raised by the Word of Wisdom. We lived with absolute prohibition against certain activities. But the Word of Wisdom is not binding on us anymore. So how do we make good decisions in various lifestyle issues? How do we decide what we are allowed to do or not allowed to do in the Christian faith?
Make Decisions Based on Principles, Not Rules
Many lifestyle choices are not spelled out for us in the Bible. There is no direct, black and white instruction about the use of many substances, medicines, foods or beverages – including things mentioned in the Word of Wisdom. This is where we must learn to make decisions based on basic principles that help us be aware of what a good choice involves. What biblical principles guide these kinds of lifestyle decisions?
[Related: 5 Step Decision Making]
[Related: Don’t Just Follow Your Heart]
Principle One: Is It legal?
If it’s not legal, don’t do it. Of course, just because a substance is legal doesn’t mean it’s a great choice. Also, some substances are legal but can be used in an illegal or an unhealthy manner. But if it’s not legal, there is really no debate about whether you should partake.
Principle Two: Is It Helpful?
Some things are permitted. That is, they are not expressly forbidden in the Bible. But even so, they may not be helpful or beneficial.
1 Corinthians 10:23 You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial.
For example, smoking (or vaping) is legal, but is clearly detrimental to good health. With substances like this, we’re better off is we choose not to partake, because they are not helpful. Or they are not helpful in the quantities we might consume.
Principle Three: Will It Control Me?
Ultimately as Christians, we want to be controlled by God, not any food or substance.
1 Corinthians 6:12 You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything.
Humans have a void within that is designed to be filled by God. If you choose to use a substance, will it end up competing with God? Is that where you look for your power to get through the day? For example, the Bible never prohibits alcohol. But it does tell us not to allow alcohol to control us.
Ephesians 5:18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit.
The contrast in this verse has to do with what is empowering and controlling us. Are we being controlled by the Holy Spirit, or by the “spirits” in the bottle? The danger is filling the God-shaped space in our soul with some substance – whether it be food, medicine, or whatever else – instead of with the Holy Spirit.
[Related: Is It Wrong for Christians to Drink Alcohol?]
[Related: Obedience to God After Mormonism]
As you start figuring out what your life will be like post-Mormonism, the question will arise, “Should I have a beer? Should I start drinking coffee?” The Bible has sound principles that will help you make great decisions in those areas that were once prescribed for you.
