Proverbs 20:1; 23:20-21, 29-33; Romans 14:19-21; Ephesians 5:15-18
Related Sunday School Lesson, Family Bible Series, Jan. 30

Consider the following facts from the 2003 report of the United States Department of Health and Human Services:

* 3.1 million persons aged 12 or older use marijuana daily.

* 1.9 million persons were treated for abuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs.

* 19.1 million males aged 18 or older were dependent on or abusing alcohol or illicit drugs.

* 119 million Americans (50.1%) aged 12 or older drink alcohol.

* The highest prevalence of binge and heavy drinking was for young adults aged 18 to 25.

These statistics are staggering. But our consideration should not end with just looking at figures. We must ponder what the Bible has to say, for only it will lead us in the path of true wisdom.

 

Exercise Wisdom, (Proverbs 20:1)

In today's world there exists a knowledge explosion. But with this sudden increase in knowledge, many times wisdom is overlooked. Wisdom is knowledge combined with experience and application. The ultimate source of wisdom is God (James 1:5).

In the Bible, Proverbs is the book of wisdom. It clearly states that allowing alcohol to control oneself is not wise. Many have walked down the road of "social drinking" saying, "I can handle my booze," only to realize alcohol has instead "handled" them. As Christians we are called to exercise wisdom and to allow it to guide us, not mood-altering substances.

 

Think About It ... When it comes to whether or not to partake in alcohol or drugs, how much of a role does Scripture play in your decision?

 

Watch Out!, (Proverbs 23:20-21, 29-33)

The Bible clearly issues a warning to those who abuse alcohol. Substance abuse has devastating consequences, including poverty and sorrow. Any family member or close associate of a substance abuser can attest to the heartaches and losses endured because of it.

The writer of Proverbs issues a clear admonition that alcohol is dangerous: It is not to be treated lightly.

 

Think About It ... A coworker invites you to join him after work for a "quick bite out to eat." You know that this person's lifestyle includes the use of alcohol and that he has been struggling with difficult circumstances. Considering the warning in Proverbs 23:20, what should your response be? How could you help this person without becoming a close companion? (See also 2 Corinthians 6:14; 1 Corinthians 15:33; and 1 John 2:15-16).

 

Consider Others, (Romans 14:19-21)

Some Christians believe that drinking alcohol in moderation is okay. With this perspective comes a condescending attitude that looks down upon those "social illiterates" who are teetotalers.

Yet those who "drink in moderation" fail to realize two things: First, abuse of alcohol almost always begins with the notion that, "I can control my drinking." No one sets out to become an alcoholic or drug addict.

Second, those who participate in social drinking fail to consider the impact it might have upon others. The Bible is clear that we are not to cause our brother to stumble.

 

Think About It ... It is often reported by those struggling with substance addiction that they "stole their first drinks" from the liquor cabinet of their parents at home. If you are choosing to drink in moderation, who in your circle of influence might you be putting into jeopardy?

 

Submit to the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:15-18)

Paul clearly gives the command to be filled with the Holy Spirit. It is interesting that this command is given with the comparison and contrast of getting drunk with wine. The primary point Paul makes relates to who or what is in control of an individual's life. As believers we are not to allow substances to control us. Instead we are to yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit for Him to both guide and empower us. This cannot happen unless we avoid chemicals whose sole purpose it is to alter our state of mind or emotion. This verse would seem to indicate that the control of alcohol will lead us in an opposing direction to the control of the Spirit. We cannot be filled with the Spirit and influenced by other substances.

God wants to fully meet our needs. Whatever reason we give for the use of alcohol or other mood-altering substances, God wants us to know that only He can fill that need completely. Mood-altering substances eventually fail us as the chemicals "wear off." But God, by the cleansing and forgiveness of sin through His Son Jesus and by the filling of His Holy Spirit, gives us a hope that "does not disappoint" (Romans 5:5).

 

Think About It ... Many times when mood-altering substances are used, they are a quick, although eventually ineffective, "fix" to legitimate needs. A good acrostic to follow may be "HALT" when you are Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired. What legitimate needs are your trying to fill with ineffective sources? Take some time to "HALT" and consider: What better resources has God provided to meet those needs? Remember, it is often the case that assistance from a wise, Christian counselor or friend is needed (Proverbs 18:1-2; 19:20-21).