During this time of year, liquor stores do a booming business as everyone stocks up for the holidays. Parties will highlight alcohol consumption. Of course, there will also be the usual police check points  to stop people who may be driving while intoxicated.

Does the Bible provide any guidelines for drinking alcoholic beverages? Actually, it gives a very balanced approach. The Apostle Paul advised the young evangelist, Timothy, to drink a little wine for his stomach’s sake (1 Timothy:5:23Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.). Notice he said “little.”

Other Scriptures let us know that it is not permissible to drink to excess. Proverbs warns that a drunkard will come to poverty (Proverbs:23:21For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.) and the New Testament tells us to not keep company with a drunkard (1 Corinthians:5:11But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.).

By putting these two examples together, we can understand that, while drinking is permitted, getting drunk is not the way to go. Just think of how many problems could be prevented if people did not get drunk. How many family arguments will there be during this season as individuals over-indulge and lose control over what they say or do? How many injuries or deaths could be avoided if there were no drunkenness? It is easy to see why some people even today would like to see another temperance movement. Unfortunately, the last time it was tried, crime was an unintended side effect.

We see that the moderation the Bible teaches is very wise. It is what we should practice in our homes and, when we go to parties. It is a good idea to use the designated driver concept. Moderation is perhaps one of the most important lessons we can teach our children before they leave home and are tempted by excesses which can ruin lives.

A possible resource for anyone to read is: Overcoming Alcoholism There is Hope!

Toronto Pastor