September 24, 2017 (Proverbs 31:4,5)

“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted” (Prov 31:4,5). Those in leadership are to abstain from intoxicating drink lest they are impaired from making just decisions on the part of those under their authority. In the early days of Israel under the law, abstinence from intoxicating wine was also required for the priests when carrying out their duties (Leviticus 10:9-11). It would appear death of Aaron’s sons by fire from the LORD immediately before was likely a result of ungodly behavior while intoxicated. And God’s command for Israelites who would separate themselves for special service to the LORD by the vow of a Nazarite included abstaining not only from alcoholic drink but even from grapes, either moist or dried (Numbers 6:3). Proverbs 23:29-35 gives a strong admonition for God’s people to avoid alcohol because of its corrupting influence, even indicating its effects can be demonic as well as impairing sound judgments as well as opening one’s life to the possibility of addiction. Before John the Baptist’s birth, his father was told by God that his son was never to take any fermented (alcoholic) drink consistent with OT instructions that those used by God in special ways were to live sober lives free of alcoholic use. And warnings are numerous in the NT concerning abuse of alcohol. It’s with sound reason that use of alcohol should be avoided by those having placed faith in Jesus Christ. Even a single drink has been shown to have a measurable effect on the clarity of one’s mind. Such being the case, it hinders obedience to the instruction of Paul that we’re to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (see 2 Corinthians 10:3-5). There are enough temptations and challenges in life as it is without diminishing one’s ability to withstand ever-ongoing attacks on a believer’s identity in Christ that includes being seated with Him in heavenly places. Paul understood the cost of Calvary to the Son of God when He said, “I am not my own. I have been bought at a price.” It is slander to say we believe in Jesus and what He did on our behalf and continue to choose our own way in life.