Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler,
And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.
Proverbs 20:1 (NASB)
Some have asked over the years, "why don't you drink alcohol?" Well first of all I don't like the smell of it. I am sure the taste won't be to my liking either. But that is not a spiritual reason. I know that Paul instructs Timothy to take a little wine for the stomach's sake. I also know there is no clear instruction to abstain all together from drink. I am aware for those on the other side of the issue that the Scripture also says, "don't be drunk" But truly you can drink without being overwhelmed with being intoxicated.
However, I believe as a Pastor and as a follower of Christ that I want to be wise. I feel that for me I desire to always be ready to give an answer for my faith and I don't want anything to stand in the way of being faithful to my call.
Fellow ministers, that is where I think wisdom to stay away from the drink all together is wise. I don't need it, I don't want its influence and so I stay away from it altogether. Sin, temptation and falling short is so easy for us to fall into. I want to be above reproach and steer clear of anything that could bring a reproach to our Lord and Savior.
Thank you for reading and I hope it will be food for thought for us as Minister of the Gospel.
