What does the Bible say about moderation?
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The Bible calls believers to self-controlled, God-honoring enjoyment of His good gifts, refusing anything that masters, dulls, or harms them. Though all lawful things may be permitted, 1 Corinthians 6:12 teaches that Christians must not be enslaved by any appetite. Proverbs 25:16 warns against excess even in pleasant things, while Proverbs 20:1 and Ephesians 5:18 caution against intoxication and its folly. Christian moderation is not cold restraint or legalism, but freedom directed by love, wisdom, and service to God and neighbor. Philippians 4:5 commends gentleness, and 1 Peter 5:8 urges sober-minded watchfulness. By the Spirit, believers pursue disciplined lives that display the character of Christ.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 1 Corinthians 6:12
"All things are lawful for me," but not all things are expedient. "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be brought under the power of anything.
- Proverbs 25:27
It is not good to eat much honey; Nor is it honorable to seek one's own honor.
- 1 Corinthians 9:25
Every man who strives in the games exercises self-control in all things. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible.
- Philippians 4:5
Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
- Ephesians 5:18
Don't be drunken with wine, in which is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit,
- Proverbs 25:16
Have you found honey? Eat as much as is sufficient for you, Lest you eat too much, and vomit it.
- Galatians 5:13
For you, brothers, were called for freedom. Only don't use your freedom for gain to the flesh, but through love be servants to one another.
- Titus 2:7
in all things showing yourself an example of good works; in your teaching showing integrity, seriousness, incorruptibility,
- Proverbs 20:1
Wine is a mocker, and beer is a brawler; Whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
- 1 Peter 5:8
Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
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