Word of Wisdom: Principles

In February 1833, Joseph Smith received a revelation about bodily stewardship. The revelation, known as “the Word of Wisdom” declares that it is “given for a principle with promise” (Doctrine and Covenants 89:3). It contains a number of specific dietary guidelines, including abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea (v. 5-9), prioritizing fruits and vegetables (v. 10-11) as well as grains (v. 16-17), and limiting consumption of meat (v. 12-15).

This week’s Come, Follow Me lesson encourages us to look for principles in this section which can guide our decisions. Here are some principles I have found, which have implications far beyond diet and nutrition:

1. God respects our agency. He sent this revelation as a “greeting,” not as a “commandment or constraint” (v. 2). He wants to help us make wise decisions, not simply follow orders.
2. We should avoid habits that limit our freedom. We must be cautious of “conspiring men,” who profit from enticing us into addictive behaviors (v. 4).
3. Keep things simple, and avoid extremes. Even foods we know are good—fruits and vegetables—are to be “used with prudence and thanksgiving” (v. 11).
4. Be realistic, and acknowledge your constraints. Limiting meat consumption may be good, but it may not always be possible (v. 12-15). Make the best decisions you can within your unique circumstances.
5. Allocate resources wisely. After emphasizing that “all grain is good for the food of man,” the Lord also highlights appropriate uses for animals. We can take care of our own health while ensuring that other important needs are met.

Lehi urged his sons to “choose liberty and eternal life,” not “captivity and death” (2 Nephi 2:27). The principles in the Word of Wisdom help us choose liberty by maintaining good health and avoiding freedom-limiting addictions.

Today, I will make decisions according to the principles in the Word of Wisdom. I will be grateful for God’s commitment to my agency and for His assistance in using that agency wisely.