(Proverbs 20:1 KJV) Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.
As I was reading this I found myself comparing the words used about the effects of too much alcohol. I would probably go further and say, any alcohol. The KJV says we are “deceived” (7686). The NASB says “intoxicated.” The ASV uses “ereth.” The CEV uses “makes a fool.” The Douay says “delighted.” I hate to say it but the NASB seems to have the weakest translation here. The idea is to go astray and miss the mark. Some would say this is one of the definitions of sin.
Be careful. It may be simplistic but it seems true: If I don’t take the first drink I will never take one too many. Of course we must admit that just because you don’t drink doesn’t mean you are wise but booze seems to rule it out altogether.
So? Be careful. Be moderate. I would say be a teetotaler, but that is my interpretation. Whatever your choice make sure it is not in conformity to the world.
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2 comments:
I think moderation is the key. The scriptures also say to take a little wine for your stomach's sake (medicinally) and to let the poor man drink and forget his sorrows. Also, Jesus didn't turn the wine into water.
As for excess, the Bible makes it clear that drunkenness is a sin. AND, that IF our "eye" offends us, that we should pluck it out, rather than let it lead us into hell.
I have a friend who claims that Jesus turned the water into "new wine," or what he calls grape juice. I would say that is an even greater miracle than wine because the people who had been partying hard enough to drink all the wine thought it was even better.
I wonder if Jesus had a license from BATF?
Grace and peace.
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