Bullying and Sin of Gluttony

First Action
Bullying is a terrible act that inflicts pain and damage on the victim. Victims may feel a need for revenge. There are times when people that are bullied wish to harm others and that is not what God wants or desires for the person. Jesus Christ absolved everyone of Original Sin by dying on the cross. Does one think that Jesus Christ wants revenge on those that tortured Him? Jesus and God wish for people to forgive and let go of the pain and darkness that overwhelms the soul when pain is inflicted upon it.
Leviticus 19:18 ‘You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.’ (Carroll & Prickett, 2008). Such a quote from the Bible teaches that people must love one another. The point of living is to live a life following the law of God so one can be happy. What kind of happiness can come from constant anger, fear, and need for revenge?
Some Action
Kindness must begin somewhere. Psalm 37: 8, ‘Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing’ (Carroll & Prickett, 2008). Romans 12:17 ‘Never pay back evil for evil to anyone Respect what is right in the sight of all men’ (Carroll & Prickett, 2008). People are created in the likeness of God. If God is saying to be kind and to not let anger and wrath lead to evil, then one must follow these words and take heed. It is easy to be angry, stay angry, and not express kindness to an enemy. It is easy at first. But in the end, when people are judge and when people live, they see the error in their ways. The soul requires forgiveness of self and of others.
Response: The Sin of Gluttony
First Action
Temperance must be performed when attempting to avoid sinning. People can have some treats and things they enjoy when it comes to food, but in moderation. Paul examines Christian temperance in the Bible. “The general principle concerning temperance in all things has been outlined in the word of God by the apostle Paul. 1 Corinthians 10:31” (SDARM, 2017). While it is understandable that people have appetites and wish to satiate them, it is also important to have discipline. Going back to Paul, he worked very hard to earn money. He did not gamble or drink or engage in fornication.
People must understand that not every action must be done. Gluttony can lead to other vices. But most importantly, it can lead to health issues. Obesity for example, is what can happen when people partake in too much food. Health problems like diabetes and immobility often stem from obesity. If one learns to say no, one can better handle the health problems that arise with old age. Temperance is key: Titus 2:12 ‘It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age’ (Carroll & Prickett, 2008).
Some Action
Moderation exists within the same realm as temperance. Things can be done, but not excess. With gluttony, people indulge too much in food and libations. However, if one aims to eat for example, a piece of chocolate rather than the whole chocolate bar, that is practicing moderation. Philippians 4:5 “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand” (Carroll & Prickett, 2008). Balance is key in life. To practice it can bring happiness and is in line with the law of God.
References
Carroll, R. P., & Prickett, S. (2008). The Bible: Authorized King James Version. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
SDARM. (2017). Christian temperance. Retrieved from http://www.sdarm.org/about-us/beliefs/christian-temperance