Good Morning,

At this point in the Book of Proverbs, the format changes slightly from proverbs contrasting wisdom and folly to those of warning and instruction.

This morning we will focus upon the first warning, it is found in Proverbs 20:1. "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise."

In many churches, there seems to be a frightening trend. Many are moving away from positions of the past while replacing them with what I would label as "worldly moderations." I was asked a question just one week ago by a new convert who is seeking and growing. He asked, "Is it wrong for a Christian to have one beer?" I stated emphatically, "Absolutely it is!" Now I know in the day and age in which we live people are looking for churches that allow for the drinking of alcoholic beverages in moderation. First, may I ask you to define moderation in this instance? Is it one alcoholic beverage, two, or maybe even three? Also, how does drinking alcohol fit into the truth stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:22, "Abstain from all appearance of evil." The word "abstain" speaks of making a deliberate choice to not do or partake of something. Now I know this isn't a popular position, but I am certain it is the Christian position.

Alcoholic beverages cause men to mock and rage. Foolish men imbibe intoxicants, thinking to get drunk and forget their troubles. As one preacher correctly said, "The irony is that alcohol does not drown trouble, it makes it float."

The world advertises alcohol as a great way to enjoy, loosen up, and get a buzz. The truth is, alcohol is a great deceiver. In place of its short ‘high’ comes nothing but trouble and destruction. Truly, alcoholic beverages are demons in a bottle. Few things in the history of humanity have been more destructive to life, happiness, and family than alcohol. Those who drink are not wise.

I want you to study the following Scriptures, and allow God to direct you to the proper decision.

Romans 14:21
Proverbs 23:29-35
Isaiah 28:7
Leviticus 10:9

People who think they can manage alcoholic beverages are not wise. Just as a person who thinks they can manage illegal drugs is not wise.

Meditate upon the Word of God and allow it to guide you rather than the darkened society in which we live.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott