4 Maccabees 3:15

15 But even though he was on fire with thirst, David understood the terrible danger that this drink posed to his soul. It had equal value to the blood of the men who risked their lives to fetch it.

4 Maccabees 3:15 In-Context

13 They sneaked past the guards at the gate and began searching through the whole camp.

14 They found the spring and courageously brought the king a drink.

15 But even though he was on fire with thirst, David understood the terrible danger that this drink posed to his soul. It had equal value to the blood of the men who risked their lives to fetch it.

16 So he pitted clear thinking against his desire, and he poured out the drink as an offering to God.

17 The sensible mind can overcome the pressures of the emotions and put out the flames of undisciplined desires.

Footnotes

• [a] Gk omits of the men who risked their lives to fetch it.