A magazine advertisement for the MTV special The Seven Deadly Sins carried this line: “Lust: Where would we be without it?” A popular radio and television personality said that greed can be good because it makes capitalism work well. An MTV commentator said, “A little lust, pride, sloth, and gluttony—in moderation—are fun, and that’s what keeps your heart beating.”

Gluttony in moderation? That’s doubletalk. How can we practice excess in moderation? Moderation is a virtue, but it can never apply to an action that is immoral.

There may be nothing wrong with eating some goodies, especially those marked “lite,” “cholesterol free,” or “low calorie.” But there is no such thing as “light lust” or “low-calorie greed.” Lust, greed, or sin of any kind and in any amount is always wrong.

Christians who are serious about pleasing the Lord will continually examine and judge their inner thoughts and motives. They’ll confess and repent of greed as a motive for making more and more money. And they’ll work at disciplining their thoughts and actions.

Enjoy a few “lite” desserts. But don’t fall for the idea that a little sinning is all right if done in moderation.