We believe God created man perfect. Body, soul, and spirit belong to the Lord. It is His will that mankind should rejoice in spiritual, mental, and physi¬cal health. Therefore, it is our duty to observe the divine health principles, not only for our own health, but also to be better able to serve mankind. Luke 9:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 24.
“The health reform is one branch of the great work which is to fit a people for the coming of the Lord. It is as closely connected with the third angel’s message as the hand is with the body.” -Counsels on Health, pp. 20, 21.
When the Creator prescribed man’s diet in paradise, He showed what is the best foundation for human nourishment-plant foods. Grains, fruits, and nuts were the diet chosen by our Creator. Genesis 1:29. Vegetables were added later. Genesis 3:18. Therefore, we abstain from every type of flesh (fowl, fish, or any other). Furthermore, we avoid alcoholic and caffeine-containing beverages (such as cola drinks), strong spices, sharp cheese, coffee, black tea, tobacco, and every kind of narcotics. We advise against the combination of milk and sugar. 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.
As Advent believers, we have also received much light through the testimonies of the Spirit of Prophecy concerning the preservation of our health. First of all, we should keep our bodies healthy through healthful foods, which were prescribed for the first human pair, and use of natural remedies. How¬ever, if because of external, unhealthful influences, prior improper life habits, stress or other factors of modern living, we become ill and in need of medical help, we should, as much as possible, seek a believing physician. Especially in such situations, we can trust in the promise that the Lord God is our Physician and really can help and heal. Medications should be used only when absolutely necessary and with caution. Exodus 15:26.
“Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power-these are the true remedies. Every person should have a knowledge of nature’s remedial agencies and how to apply them.” -The Ministry of Healing, p. 127.
As Advent believers, we are also reformers in dress. We should not wear extravagant or unhealthful clothing, extreme fashions which violate standards of modesty and contribute directly to the spread of immoral conditions, or unhealthful footwear.
“In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” 1 Timothy 2:9, 10; 1 Peter 3:3-5; Isaiah 3:16-24.
Outward adornment, which draws attention to the wearer, does not honor God.
Concerning hair, the Bible says the following: “Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.” 1 Corinthians 11:14, 15.
When Jesus’ love is in his heart, every believer will be an example in these things.