My family history is cratered with the impact of addiction. I have lost loved ones, seen families ripped apart, and lived through the results of various addictive behaviors. I have seen communities lose their most generous benefactors. I have drug people out of businesses who were so drunk they could no longer move on their own.

For a little while, I want to share some wisdom surrounding alcohol use. We need to delve deeper into discernment and the glorification of God in our actions (Prov. 2:1-6; Heb. 5:14). I’m not here to cast any stones on your past, but I want to empower you, as individuals, to apply wisdom to live holy in this life.

Myth 1: The Only Problem is Drunkenness

It’s a common misconception that as long as one avoids drunkenness, alcohol consumption is without issue. Yet, Scripture repeatedly calls for sobriety—not just the absence of drunkenness—to maintain vigilance and spiritual integrity (1 Peter 5:8). Drunkenness may be the visible line, but wisdom involves recognizing the subtle impairments and spiritual risks even moderate drinking introduces.

Myth 2: Social Drinking is Just Fine

Social drinking is often considered harmless, but Proverbs 20:1 warns that wine is a mocker, suggesting that any level of intoxication can lead to folly. Romans 14:21 extends this caution, urging us to forego drinking if it might cause another believer to stumble. Thus, the social acceptability of drinking does not align with the biblical call for wisdom and sensitivity toward the spiritual well-being of others.

Myth 3: Paul Says We Can Drink

It’s often argued that drinking is generally acceptable because Paul suggests using a little wine for health reasons (1 Timothy 5:23). However, this overlooks the context and purpose behind Paul’s advice. His recommendation was for specific medicinal purposes, not as an endorsement of social or recreational drinking. The broader scriptural context consistently emphasizes sobriety and warns against the potential pitfalls of alcohol. Thus, wisdom dictates that Paul’s specific counsel not be generalized to endorse broader alcohol consumption practices among Christians.

Myth 4: Modern Wine is the Same as Biblical Wine

A prevalent myth suggests that today’s alcoholic beverages directly compare to those mentioned in the Bible. However, due to differences in production and ingredients, most modern wines and spirits are significantly more potent and less pure. Biblical references to wine often involve a much milder beverage, typically diluted with water, which contrasts sharply with the potent forms commonly available today.

A Call for Discernment and Holiness

Navigating alcohol use as a Christian requires a balance of scriptural understanding and practical wisdom. It involves making choices that reflect spiritual discernment, promote holiness, and consider the broader impact on the community and oneself. We are called to live not by what is seemingly permissible but by what is beneficial and edifying for our spiritual journey and for those around us, providing a guiding light in our decision-making.

I pray that we are willing to make the hard changes needed to be more in tune with our King.