A Unique Perspective on Alcohol

Those people who are against alcohol will quote Proverbs 20:1 to support their argument.  Meanwhile, those people who like to drink will reference John 2:1-11, claiming Jesus hung out with sinners.  However, there is another view often overlooked, one that is from a mother’s point of view.  This unique perspective comes from King Lemuel’s mother.

In Proverbs 31:4-7, Lemuel reflects upon the lessons he learned from his mother about alcohol.  His mother warned him not to drink wine or crave beer, knowing that if consumed this will likely cause her son to forget God’s decrees and laws.  According to his mother, alcohol can also hinder one’s judgment as a ruler, forgetting the rights of people.

King Lemuel’s mother made one exception for alcohol, for the perishing or anyone in anguish.  In fact, most drinking establishments, whether they know it or not, use her logic to appeal to their customers.  King Lemuel’s mother understood that alcohol can numb pain, whether it is health, money or every day problems.  Unfortunately, alcohol is used as an escape, instead of going to the only One who can heal your pain, Matthew 11:28-30.  Or as one of Jesus’ disciples suggested, cast your cares upon Jesus for He cares for you, 1 Peter 5:7.

by Jay Mankus