What Is the Word of Wisdom?

The Word of Wisdom is a revelation given by the Lord and recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 89.

It teaches principles that help us care for our physical bodies and strengthen our spiritual lives.

Many people focus only on the substances the Lord has instructed us to avoid. While those instructions are important, the Word of Wisdom also teaches positive principles such as gratitude, wise stewardship, wholesome living, and moderation.

At its heart, the Word of Wisdom reminds us that our bodies are sacred gifts from God.

Why Did God Give Us the Word of Wisdom?

Heavenly Father loves His children.

Because He loves us, He gives commandments that protect and bless us.

God created the earth and provided many good things for our benefit. At the same time, He understands that some substances and habits can damage our bodies, limit our freedom, and lead to harmful addictions.

The Word of Wisdom helps us avoid many of these challenges before they begin.

Like many commandments, it is an expression of God's love. He wants His children to experience joy, health, and the blessings that come from living according to His wisdom rather than the world's.

Our Bodies Are Temples

The Apostle Paul taught that our bodies are temples of the Holy Ghost.

That truth changes the way we view physical health.

When we understand that our bodies are sacred, we begin to treat them with greater respect and gratitude.

The Word of Wisdom teaches us to be mindful of what we put into our bodies and how we care for them.

It encourages habits that strengthen us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Living the Word of Wisdom is one way we show gratitude to God for the bodies He has given us.

The Blessings of Living the Word of Wisdom

The Lord has promised blessings to those who faithfully live His commandments.

Many people find that living the Word of Wisdom helps them develop healthier habits, avoid harmful addictions, and exercise greater self-control.

It can also bring practical blessings.

Many members appreciate not spending large amounts of money on alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or other substances prohibited by the Word of Wisdom.

Others find that living these principles helps them feel more spiritually focused and better able to recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost.

The greatest blessing, however, is not simply physical health—it is becoming more obedient, disciplined, and receptive to the Lord's guidance.

"Why Does God Care If I Drink Coffee or Alcohol?"

Because He cares about you.

The Lord's commandments are never given to make our lives worse.

They are given to bless us.

God understands the challenges, addictions, and consequences that can result from harmful substances. Because He loves His children, He provides guidance to help protect them.

The Word of Wisdom is not about taking away freedom.

It is about preserving freedom.

The fewer things that control us, the more freedom we have to follow Jesus Christ, serve others, and live according to our own righteous choices.

What If I'm Struggling to Live the Word of Wisdom?

You are not alone.

Many people have faced challenges as they have worked to live this commandment.

The important thing is not to give up.

Keep trying.

Seek help when you need it.

Turn to the Savior through prayer and repentance.

Believe that change is possible.

Jesus Christ understands our struggles perfectly, and through His grace He can strengthen us as we work to overcome challenges and build better habits.

Progress may take time, but the Lord blesses sincere effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Word of Wisdom just a health code?

No.

It includes principles of obedience, self-control, gratitude, wise stewardship, and caring for the bodies God has given us.

Why does the Church emphasize the Word of Wisdom?

Because it is a commandment revealed by the Lord and because it helps protect and bless His children physically and spiritually.

What if I've made mistakes?

The Savior's Atonement makes repentance possible. No matter where you are in your journey, you can move forward with faith and continue striving to follow the Lord.

Scriptures to Study

• Doctrine and Covenants 89
• 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
• Proverbs 25:28
• Mosiah 2:41
• Doctrine and Covenants 88:124

Final Thoughts

The Word of Wisdom is not about restriction.

It is about freedom.

The Lord gave this commandment because He loves His children and wants them to enjoy the blessings that come from healthy habits, self-control, and wise choices.

As we strive to obey the Word of Wisdom, we show gratitude for the bodies God has given us and demonstrate our willingness to trust His guidance.

The Lord's commandments are always given for our benefit, and the Word of Wisdom is no exception.

The Word of Wisdom helps us become more free, not less.

We hope this article has helped you better understand the Word of Wisdom and why it remains an important part of discipleship today. Our prayer is that every resource we create points you toward the Savior and helps you prepare to make and keep sacred temple covenants.

Thank you for spending part of your temple journey with us.

— Scott & Riah Brough

Brough Made

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