Based on the writings of Ellen G. White, an "unnatural desire for sensual indulgence" refers to a range of cravings and behaviors that prioritize self-gratification over physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It is characterized by the indulgence of appetites and passions that are contrary to the laws of health and morality.
This desire manifests in several key areas:
### 1. Unnatural Stimulants and Diet
The use of stimulants creates a physical dependency that weakens the will. This includes substances like tobacco and alcohol, which are described as creating an "unnatural craving."
* "The more debilitated the system becomes and the less able to do without unnatural stimulus, the more the passion for these things increases, until the will is overborne, and there seems to be no power to deny the unnatural craving for these indulgences." (
3T 487.2)
* "The effort made to create a taste for the disgusting, filthy poison, tobacco, leads to the desire for stronger stimulants, as liquor... Thus an unnatural appetite is created for these hurtful and exciting stimulants." (
4T 30.3)
* "Intemperance in eating and drinking, leading as it does to the indulgence of the lower passions, prepares the way for men to disregard all moral obligations. When assailed by temptation, they have little power of resistance." (
PP 378.2)
### 2. Worldly Amusements and Pleasures
A constant search for entertainment and worldly pleasure is seen as a form of sensual indulgence that distracts from spiritual growth and debases the mind.
* "The natural mind leans toward pleasure and self-gratification. It is Satan's policy to manufacture an abundance of this. He seeks to fill the minds of men with a desire for worldly amusement, that they may have no time to ask themselves the question, How is it with my soul?" (
CT 337.1)
* "When an appetite for exciting, sensational stories is cultivated, the moral taste becomes perverted, and the mind is unsatisfied unless constantly fed upon this trashy, unwholesome food. The mind craved stimulation as the drunkard craves intoxicating drink." (
CTBH 124.3)
### 3. Lustful and Base Passions
The term is frequently connected to the indulgence of lustful thoughts and actions, which are seen as debasing and destructive.
* "Sensuality is the sin of the age. But the religion of Jesus Christ will hold the lines of control over every species of unlawful liberty; the moral powers will hold the lines of control over every thought, word, and action." (PH137 8)
* "What is the result of giving loose rein to the lower passions? The bedchamber, where angels of God should preside, is made unholy by unholy practices. And because shameful animalism rules, bodies are corrupted; loathsome practices lead to loathsome diseases. That which God has given as a blessing is made a curse." (
CCh 135.2)
In essence, an unnatural desire for sensual indulgence is the elevation of the "animal propensities" over the "moral and intellectual" faculties. It is a pattern of behavior where cravings for stimulants, unhealthy food, worldly pleasures, and lustful gratification control a person's life, leading to physical, mental, and spiritual ruin.