“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise” (Prov 20:1). Abstinence from alcoholic drink guarantees avoidance of many potential pitfalls as described in scripture including possibility of addiction that excludes eventual inheritance of heaven. Furthermore, those especially consecrated for service to the Lord are enjoined to avoid alcohol. So let us briefly review biblical examples provided for our instruction. In Leviticus 10, Aaron’s two sons profaned the holy place as ministers of God and died from fire coming from the presence of the LORD. Immediately, God told Aaron that he and his sons must not “drink wine or other fermented drink” when entering the Tent of Meeting to minister to the LORD or they would die (10:8,9). Clearly the implication was that sons of Aaron brought dishonor to God by the influence of alcohol. When performing priestly duties, abstinence from intoxicating drink was required upon penalty of death. A similar decree for those who would rule over people as found in Proverbs 31. “It is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights” (31:4,5). God’s high standard for the rulers of people is to avoid what might weaken them morally or cause them to pervert justice. It is a standard not only for ministers of God but those in leadership positions which applies today, words inspired by Holy Spirit although so totally disregarded not only by society in general but within the body of Christ. And the consequences of rebellion against God are evident in every walk of life.
