Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. (Rom 14:19-21 KJV)
It has been almost three decades since I quit drinking alcoholic beverages. By that time many of my family members and friends had already lost their lives in death to causes that were related either directly or indirectly to alcohol or other drugs. Although, still drinking, on occasion, I had already been questioning how it was that so many who had been so close to those who died from alcohol and drug related causes would continue to abuse these substances. It is hard to fathom how those who abuse prescription drugs justify that in their own minds.
Alcohol, in paricular, has not generally lead to peace or edification of any kind. In fact, it has led to disputes and divisions; some big, some small. Although, I had by this time learned (the hard way) not to get drunk myself, I would still have a few drinks with family and friends. But, even this usually led to disaster. The results were not good! Remember, the saying "Loose lips sink ships" from World War II? Well, alcohol and drugs loosen lips and loose lips sink relationships, as well. It doesn't take too many drinks to loosen lips.
Then, within one week, I heard two different family members say things to the effect of: "Well, even Judy likes to drink." I was like, "What!? It's my fault they drink? It's my fault their lives are such a mess?!" Although; I recognize that the use of alcohol is not the same as abuse; I decided then that no one would ever be able to use me as an excuse for their abusive use of alcohol again. They could try. But, they would not be able to honestly every say again, "even Judy drinks."
The end result was that I do not drink alcoholic beverages. I may unwittingly be a stumbling block to others; but, it will not be because of alcohol abuse or use. St Paul wrote: "It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak." (vs 21)
We are only a few days a way from Christmas. Many of my loved ones have lost their lives during the Advent and Christmas seasons. Please, be careful if you are drinking or drugging. We are free to choose what to eat or drink according to our own conscience. But, be careful that you do not become someone else's stumbling block; the cause of their demise. Do not turn anyone's laughter into sorrow because you believe that the way to your own happiness is getting drunk or high. Substance abuse destroys relationships. It destroys and takes away any opportunity to live life. It doesn't give. It takes life.
"And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit." (Eph 5:18)
Be filled with the Spirit of Christ and truly enjoy life!
God's Peace - Pr. J.
