It is an undue absorption with those things which serve only a temporary purpose and use. This may be done by things which are quite lawful in themselves, but through an immoderate use they gain possession of the heart. It does this by supplying the powerful motives and incentives to personal holiness. It does this by causing us to subordinate the interests of the body unto the higher interests of the soul. Grace teaches positively.
Sobriety is the moderation of our affections in the pursuit and use of earthly things.
We are to be temperate in eating, sleeping, recreation, dress. We need to be sober-minded, and not extremists. Only Divine grace can effectually teach sobriety, and if I am growing in grace, then I am becoming more sober. Grace does not remove natural inclinations and affections, but it governs them it bridles their excess. This concerns our dealings with our fellows.