Obey the Word of Wisdom

The Word of Wisdom, as given to the Prophet Joseph Smith, teaches that we are to eat healthy foods and avoid harmful substances, including alcohol, tobacco, tea, coffee, and harmful or habit-forming drugs.  As we show our faith and adhere to the Word of Wisdom, God in turn promises blessings of health, wisdom, and great knowledge.

Your body is a precious gift from God.  To help keep your body and mind healthy and strong, God wants you to follow the law of health He gave to Joseph Smith in 1833.  This law is known as the Word of Wisdom, and it teaches which foods and substances you should and should not use to maintain the health of your body and to keep you free from evil influences.  The Lord promises blessings of health, strength, protection against evil, and greater receptiveness to spiritual truths as you treat your body with respect and reverence and obey the Word of Wisdom.

In addition to emphasizing the benefits of proper eating and physical and spiritual health, God has spoken against the use of:

  • Tobacco.
  • Alcohol.
  • Coffee and tea.
  • Harmful, habit-forming drugs.

Your body is instrumental in bringing you both pain and great joy.  A healthy lifestyle promotes a sense of well-being.  Exercise, eating and sleeping properly, and a cheerful attitude will all contribute to your happiness.  Today, the scientific community promotes many of the same principles that a loving Heavenly Father gave to Joseph Smith nearly two centuries ago.

You may visit the Church-sponsored Provident Living Web site for additional information on living a healthy lifestyle. 


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