Day 03 of 30: Let's Raise A Glass…Or Not?
Day 03: Discuss your views on drugs and alcohol
Drugs. I have no tolerance, it's as simple as that.
Alcohol. I find it so funny when you join a new women's Bible study and after getting comfortable enough with someone, you try to feel it out if they're a Christian that drinks or a Christian that doesn't drink. Anyone else had that awkward moment after Bible study when they want to have a "Ladies Night" at someone's house? I have wonderful friends who choose not to drink and I have wonderful friends who do choose to drink. I, personally, think that drinking is okay if it is partaken of in the right manner.
There are many versions of Ephesians 5:18 but one of my favorite translations is the Message
"Don’t drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him."
Ephesians 5:18 (MSG).
Having a glass or two of wine with a friend, a couple beers while watching the football game, or toasting champagne at your best friends wedding are all fine and dandy. It's when you start crossing the line between a casual drink to enjoy the atmosphere and becoming drunken that there is an issue.
It's important to know your personal limits; where is your line? Drinking cheapens life in the fact that we typically make poor life decisions while under the influence of alcohol and not
the influence of the Holy Spirit. When you are under the influence of the Holy Spirit, you can make decisions based on His desires. When you are under the influence of alcohol, your decisions have a higher opportunity of falling subject to the temptations of the enemy.
So I choose to drink within my limits. I've learned my limits over the years and know when to call it quits. At the end of the day, I want my actions to glorify God and show love and kindness to others, and if I can do that while enjoying a glass of wine then #PraiseTheLord.