While "under the influence," King Belshazzar made the worst decision of his life. He was murdered before the night was over (see Dn 5:30). Noah, the first man to plant a vineyard, became drunk. This resulted in a curse on his son Ham, the father of Canaan (Gn 9:21, 25). Nabal had "a drinking party in his house," and "about ten days later the Lord struck him and he died" (1 Sm 25:36, 38). While King Elah was "drinking to excess," Zimri murdered him and took over the government (1 Kgs 16:9-10).
No drunkards will inherit God's kingdom (1 Cor 6:10). Because of this, Christians should give up drinking altogether so as to not be an occasion of sin to the weak (1 Cor 8:13). Although we are allowed to drink moderately (see 1 Tm 5:23), God's word says: "Take care, however, lest in exercising your right you become an occasion of sin to the weak" (1 Cor 8:9).
Jesus' first miracle involved alcohol (Jn 2:9). It led immediately to faith (Jn 2:11), which was His purpose. May we as the Church always be more concerned with raising faith than raising glasses!
| PRAYER: | Lord, instead of getting drunk on wine or beer, may I be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18). |
| PROMISE: | "I will give you words and a wisdom which none of your adversaries can take exception to or contradict." –Lk 21:15 |
| PRAISE: | James once went to drinking parties to fit in, but now stands out as a witness to Christ. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College