Today we will talk about verses in the Bible about drinking. It’s a topic that often raises questions and concerns among Christians. The Bible shares various perspectives on drinking, often highlighting the importance of moderation and the consequences of excess. As we explore these verses, let us open our hearts to understand the wisdom God provides through His Word. We will learn together how drinking can impact our lives and our relationship with God. Let’s meditate on these scriptures and ask how we can apply their lessons to our lives.
Bible Verses About Drinking
Moderation Matters
As we dive into the topic of drinking, it’s vital for us to remember that the Bible encourages moderation in all things. This principle is especially important when it comes to alcohol, as excess can lead us astray. We can reflect on how the Bible consistently guides us to seek a balance in our lives, making wise choices rather than succumbing to temptation. Let’s explore some verses that remind us of the importance of moderation in our drinking habits.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” – Proverbs 20:1
1 Corinthians 6:10
“Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor slanderers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:10
Ephesians 5:18
“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” – Ephesians 5:18
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: for the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.” – Proverbs 23:20-21
Galatians 5:19-21
“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.” – Galatians 5:19-21
Seeking Wisdom
In our exploration of drinking, we see the importance of seeking wisdom from God. His wisdom can guide us in our choices and help us understand the potential dangers that come from excessive drinking. We are encouraged to turn to scripture and prayer for guidance as we navigate our decisions. Let’s reflect on some verses that remind us of the value of wisdom in our lives, especially concerning drinking.
Proverbs 2:10-11
“When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee.” – Proverbs 2:10-11
James 1:5
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5
Proverbs 12:15
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.” – Proverbs 12:15
Proverbs 19:8
“He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.” – Proverbs 19:8
Colossians 3:16
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” – Colossians 3:16
The Dangers of Excess
When discussing drinking, it’s essential for us to recognize the potential dangers of excess. The Bible speaks clearly about how getting drunk can lead us down a harmful path, affecting not only our lives but also our relationships with others and with God. Understanding these warnings helps us to stay grounded and make better decisions. Let’s explore some verses emphasizing the risks associated with excessive drinking.
Isaiah 28:7
“But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.” – Isaiah 28:7
Proverbs 23:29-30
“Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.” – Proverbs 23:29-30
1 Peter 5:8
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8
Proverbs 31:4-5
“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.” – Proverbs 31:4-5
Galatians 5:19-21
“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.” – Galatians 5:19-21
Spiritual Over Substance
In our walk of faith, we are reminded that our spiritual health should take precedence over worldly cravings, including drinking. The Bible teaches us about seeking the Spirit and being filled with it rather than getting lost in substances. It’s a beautiful reminder that our focus should always be on nurturing our relationship with God and allowing His Spirit to guide our lives. Let’s examine verses that emphasize the importance of spiritual matters over indulgences like drinking.
Philippians 4:5
“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” – Philippians 4:5
Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” – Romans 14:17
1 Corinthians 10:31
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” – Matthew 5:6
John 4:13-14
“Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” – John 4:13-14
Community and Fellowship
Drinking often occurs within the context of community and fellowship. The Bible speaks about the importance of gathering together and sharing in each other’s lives. However, we must be mindful of how our drinking choices influence those around us. We should seek to uplift and support one another, ensuring that our actions promote positive connections rather than stumbling blocks. Let’s reflect on verses that highlight the gift of community and the responsibility we have within it.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Romans 15:1
“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” – Romans 15:1
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
“That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:25-26
Acts 2:46-47
“And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” – Acts 2:46-47
Self-Control and Temperance
Understanding the need for self-control and temperance is crucial when examining the topic of drinking in the Bible. We are encouraged to develop self-control to avoid pitfalls associated with excessive drinking. It’s a gift of the Spirit and a sign of maturity in our faith. Our journey includes recognizing when we need to exercise restraint and how to respond positively. Let’s look at verses that teach us about the value of self-control and temperance.
Proverbs 25:28
“He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” – Proverbs 25:28
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” – Titus 2:11-12
1 Peter 4:7
“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.” – 1 Peter 4:7
Celebration and Thanksgiving
Amid discussions about drinking, we sometimes overlook the joy of celebration and thanksgiving found in the Bible. Drinking is often associated with joyful occasions and gatherings. Nevertheless, it’s essential that our celebrations reflect gratitude and honor to God. We should remember that our joy comes from Him, and we are invited to celebrate in ways that bring glory to His name. Let’s discover verses that highlight the joyful and thankful aspects surrounding celebrations.
Psalm 104:14-15
“He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man’s heart.” – Psalm 104:14-15
Ecclesiastes 3:13
“And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labor, it is the gift of God.” – Ecclesiastes 3:13
John 2:10
“And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.” – John 2:10
Psalms 126:2
“Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them.” – Psalms 126:2
1 Timothy 4:4
“For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving.” – 1 Timothy 4:4
Grace and Redemption
Finally, as we reflect on drinking, we cannot forget the themes of grace and redemption present in the Bible. No matter how our relationship with drinking has been, God offers us mercy and a new beginning. He desires for us to experience freedom from past mistakes and to walk forward in faith. Let’s remember that redemption is available to each of us, and we can embrace it with open hearts. We’ll now look at verses that highlight the grace and redemption God offers us as we navigate this topic.
Romans 3:23-24
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 3:23-24
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
Isaiah 43:18-19
“Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?” – Isaiah 43:18-19
Psalms 103:12
“As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” – Psalms 103:12
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our exploration of drinking in the Bible, we’ve discovered that moderation is vital, and wisdom should guide our choices. We’ve learned about the dangers of excess and how our spiritual lives should take precedence over any substance, including alcohol. Our relationships with others are important, and drinking responsibly can foster community and fellowship. Furthermore, we’ve highlighted the value of self-control, the joy of celebration, and the power of grace and redemption. No matter our past, God loves us and gives us the strength to overcome. Let us continue to seek His guidance as we make choices reflecting His will.
Each verse we’ve read today has provided deeper insight, encouraging us to think about how we can integrate these lessons into our lives. With open hearts, we can continuously learn and grow in our faith, approaching the topic of drinking with encouragement and understanding. May our understanding of God’s Word shape our decisions and help us live out His love in every area of our lives. Amen.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
