Walking with God should create reverence and respect within every Christian. One sign of spiritual maturity is not needing the assistance of substances to live life. Substances are defined as something deemed harmful and usually subject to a legal restriction (Merriam-Webster dictionary). Examples of such substances can be but are not limited to alcohol, drugs, etc. These substances create a dependency within the mind and chemical makeup of each user. Some Christians like to use Jesus’ first miracle to excuse their sinful habit (John 2:9) but a lack of knowledge of the customs of those days and the modern technology of today destroy the ability to see the full picture without studying. Lacking methods of refrigeration led juice to become fermented. With this fermentation, the custom of adding water prevented the full effects of alcohol as known today. People focus on the wine rather than the display of Jesus’ deity. Alcohol is a mocker, causes issues, and those that use such substances are deceived (Proverbs 20:1). The spiritual enemies of God and Christians like to mock anyone deceived turning to such substances. Anyone who uses these substances becomes the subject of mockery, issues, and deception. Alcohol is like the venom of serpents and the deadly poison of cobras (Deuteronomy 32:33). Once this poison bites its victims life begins to leave that person as the wages of sin begin to take over (Romans 6:23). Some may say, “I’ve been drinking for years and I’m fine” while they have wasted money, time, and life on such an activity that robs them of family and memories. These memories could be lost due to a loss of memory, being drunk, or missing time with family that will never be regained. Sadly, some people, especially some Christians, have become the victims of substances because they lack knowledge regarding what God’s Word says about this subject while other Christians choose to ignore God’s Word regarding this subject (Hosea 4:6). While some Christians may argue the Bible says to drink a little wine for your stomach’s sake (1 Timothy 5:23), Paul was helping Timothy to use this as medicine for stomach issues. One minister has even pointed out the word little, not excess. In this modern time science has given people medicine for many ailments so alcohol is not needed as in Bible times. Another Christian may quote Philippians 4:5 let your moderation be known unto all men. This person would reflect to not have studied this verse but only taking it out of context to use it for their sinful pleasure. The Greek of this verse would say, “Let your gentle spirit, graciousness, unselfishness, mercy, tolerance, and patience (moderation) be known to all people” (Philippians 4:5). A dependency on alcohol can start with even one drink (Isaiah 5:11). Those that participate with such a substance will also not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:10). The Apostle Paul even writes for Christians to not fellowship with drunkards (1 Corinthians 5:11). Does this mean Christians cannot witness or evangelize those who participate in these activities? No, all people need Jesus and the salvation that is found through Him (2 Peter 3:9). No matter what sins a person commits everyone needs Jesus to get to Heaven. Every person must humble themselves before God (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:6), repent of their sins (Luke 13:3; 1 John 1:9), walk with God (James 4:8; Galatians 5:16), and perfect holiness (Matthew 3:8; 2 Corinthians 7:1) while walking through life to get to Heaven. May Christians find substance in God and not make substances their god.
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AuthorCaleb Andrews Archives
September 2024
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