Read Proverbs 23
Highlights:
The thirty sayings of the wise continue. The Satanic deceptions of wine are vividly outlined (Prov. 23:29-35). More sayings of the wise (24:23-34). The advisers of King Hezekiah compiled more proverbs of King Solomon (25:2-26:28).
We are definitely not qualified to disagree with God who said: Hear thou, My son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the (right) way. Be not among winebibbers . . . For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty. . . . who hath wounds without cause? . . . They that tarry long at the wine. . . . At the last it biteth like a serpent (Prov. 23:19-32).
Alcohol is amazingly deceptive. The insidious "occasional" drink taken in moderation seems harmless and may even give the appearance of making life more enjoyable. But most "social drinkers" eventually discover that they are alcoholics and have exchanged a meaningful life for a degrading existence. Many who were once successful and influential have been reduced to uselessness because of alcohol. And, strange as it may seem, in their own minds they are convinced that they can take it or leave it and stop drinking at any time. Our Creator has warned that wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise (Prov. 20:1). The warning from God of alcohol's poisoning effects is clear: At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder (23:32).
Pity the person who tries to escape the pressures of life and "relax" with a "little" drink, unaware of the pitiful results of continued use of alcohol.
Alcohol takes control both chemically and emotionally, with both physical and psychological effects. Once a person is addicted, dependence upon it robs him of good judgment and, eventually, may destroy God's purpose for his life as well as those of others. Alcohol can produce unavoidable, irreversible, and far-reaching physical and emotional wounds.
The longer the victim of intoxication continues indulging in alcohol the more insensible they become to the consequences of their behavior. Gradually, they have allowed themselves to be in direct violation of the Word of God. The only release from these tragic consequences is the mercy of God. When a person truly repents, turns to Christ, and allows Him to be Savior and Lord of their life, the Holy Spirit becomes their source of strength to overcome sin. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with (controlled by) the Spirit (Eph. 5:17-18).
Thought for Today:
Let us walk honestly (properly) . . . not in rioting (drinking parties) and drunkenness, not in chambering (sexual indulgence) and wantonness (unbridled lust). . . . But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh (Rom. 13:13-14).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who rewards those who repay evil with good (Prov. 25: 21-22). If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink (Rom. 12:20). Jesus commanded: Love your enemies (Matt. 5:44; Luke 6:27,35).
Word Studies:
23:20 riotous, gluttonous; 24:26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer, A fair answer is as pleasant as a kiss on the lips; 25:9 discover not a secret to another, do not betray another man's confidence; 26:24 dissembleth, harbors deceit.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Martha Roby (AL) • Country: Qatar (600,000) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Muslim conversion to Christ is forbidden, but expatriate Christians are allowed to meet informally • 79.5% Muslim; 10.5% Christian; 7.2% Hindu; 1.8% Buddhist; .9% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your prayer of thanksgiving for the marvelous blessings of God (Ps. 18:1-3).
Optional Reading:
Memory Verse for the Week:
Psalms 34:4