The revelation in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants is one of the most widely and readily recognizable aspects in the religion of the Latter-day Saints. Yet, some features of this principle are frequently misunderstood.
This revelation was sent out as a "greeting" rather than "by commandment or constraint." Nevertheless, it was to be accepted as a "revelation . . . showing forth the order and will of God." (D&C 89:2.) Although there may have been reasons in 1833 for making this distinction, the saints from the beginning took this revelation seriously. Even in the days of Joseph Smith it was recognized as a test of worthiness.How should we regard the Word of Wisdom today? What is the practical difference between a "commandment" and a "revelation of the will of God"? Surely we should want to comply with His will whether it is specifically called a "commandment" or not. The Lord has declared: "You shall live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God." (D&C 84:44.) In the light of this declaration, any distinction between "commandment" and "revelation" seems to be gone.
Even though living the Word of Wisdom has obvious benefits relative to our "temporal salvation" (D&C 89:2), the Lord has declared that "all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal." (D&C 29:34.) Hence we should regard even Section 89 as more of a spiritual principle rather than only as one having purely physical effects. The Lord explained that it was "adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all the saints, who are or can be called saints." (D&C 89:3.) The Word of Wisdom thus becomes a minimum standard by which we can show whether or not we are willing to obey even such a simple principle. Obedience, in turn, is the key to our receiving all blessings, including spiritual gifts. (D&C 130:21.)
Verses 5-9 of Section 89 set forth the "thou shalt nots" of the Word of Wisdom. The Church has officially interpreted these verses to mean that we should abstain from liquor, tobacco, coffee and tea. Nevertheless we have been told that we should not need to be "commanded in all things" but should be "anxiously engaged in a good cause." (D&C 58:26-27.) We should use the wisdom God has given us to determine what isn't good for us and then leave such things alone.
President Gordon B. Hinckley observed: "Some have even used as an alibi the fact that drugs are not mentioned in the Word of Wisdom. What a miserable excuse. There is likewise no mention of the hazards of diving into an empty pool or of jumping from an overpass onto the freeway. But who doubts the deadly consequences of such? Common sense would dictate against such behavior." (October 1989 general conference report.) Still we should be very careful not to declare something to be "against the Word of Wisdom" that has not been so designated officially by the Church.
As we emphasize these negative prohibitions, we often forget the positive counsel set forth in verses 10-17. The benefits of heeding these precepts are apparent. Emphasizing fresh produce eliminates the needs for preservatives which can be harmful. Eating meat sparingly reduces the amount of fats and cholesterol we take into our systems. Grains provide needed fiber and wholesome complex carbohydrates.
