Recovery to Mormonism

The Word of Wisdom

The Word of Wisdom is a law of health followed by members of the Mormon Church, revealed by the Lord for the physical and spiritual benefit of His children. On February 27, 1833, as recorded in section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord revealed to Joseph Smith which foods are good for us to eat and which substances are not good for the human body.

The Word of Wisdom reveals that the following substances are harmful:

Alcoholic drinks

Tobacco

Tea and coffee (latter-day prophets have taught that the term “hot drinks,” as written in this verse, refers to tea and coffee).

Illegal drugs are especially harmful to those who use them.  Prescription drug abuse is also destructive spiritually and physically.

The Word of Wisdom also tells us that the following foods are good for our bodies:

Vegetables and fruits, which should be used “with prudence and thanksgiving”

The flesh “of beasts and of the fowls of the air,” which is “to be used sparingly”

Grains such as wheat, rice, and oats, which are the “staff of life”

There is a wonderful promise from the Lord if we will keep the Word of Wisdom: “All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; . . .And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures, And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.”

If we are faithful and try to keep the Word of Wisdom, avoiding substances that the Lord prohibits, and addictive behaviors, there is yet another promise from the Lord: “And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them.”

Other Links:
Word of Wisdom
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Beliefs of Mormonism