Ergo Deus - On Account of God

Commentary & observations from my particular Christian perspective, including "homework" from my weekly Bible study on Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life. Please feel free to post topical comments.

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Location: Between UNH & USM of late., United States

Romans 7:15 in some fashion or other defines it all, be it my career, loves, family, or whatever.

Saturday, May 6

I believe it

"Despite Billy Joel's claims, the good do not actually die young. According to U.S. Census data, on average, clergy members live about 11 years longer than those who have been convicted of at least one felony crime" (Gullible.info).

Consider the Seven Deadly Sins in terms of health (source w/my additions in green):
  • Pride is excessive belief in one's own abilities, that interferes with the individual's recognition of the grace of God. It has been called the sin from which all others arise. Pride is also known as Vanity. Pride may help us look good on the outside, but the stress that it can cause in this pursuit can damage our overall health.
  • Envy is the desire for others' traits, status, abilities, or situation. Again, stress plays a factor, disrupting digestion, keeping hormones out of balance, and more just because we feel inadequate. If more people would realize that God loves all the same then envy could very well fade away.
  • Gluttony is an inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires. You know, I might not be a diabetic if it weren't for gluttony and Sloth. 'nuff said.
  • Lust is an inordinate craving for the pleasures of the body. Examples of physical affects would obviously include disease, but for me this sin keeps my eyes off the prize: salvation. Lack of same is the ultimate disease that results in death.
  • Anger is manifested in the individual who spurns love and opts instead for fury. It is also known as Wrath. High blood pressure, increase in poor judgment, yadda yadda yadda. This is a no brainer.
  • Greed is the desire for material wealth or gain, ignoring the realm of the spiritual. It is also called Avarice or Covetousness. Have you noticed how many of these sins increase stress? Greed is no less responsible for its part. "Keeping up with the Jones's" is like Pride and Lust in one package.
  • Sloth is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work. My muscle weakness and cramps are a direct result of lack of exercise. I know I really need to get more,
Do the "good" live longer and have better health? Yes, they do. They gain eternal life. Almost as importantly, with the time they have on this mortal plain the good and righteous will have more time to help others along that path for the ultimate in good health.

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