There has always been a debate in the church about how much alcohol a Christian is should drink. There are loud voices on both sides offering their opinions. The real issue is those who are struggling with alcoholism and overindulgence of food. There is a significant self-control issue in the church. It’s not just with food or alcohol either. Lack of self-control can lead us to poverty and despair. The struggle with self-control is real.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Don’t associate with those who drink too much wine or with those who gorge themselves on meat. For the drunkard and the glutton will become poor, and grogginess will clothe them in rags.”
Leads Down the Wrong Path
Solomon is not attacking the alcoholic or the glutton. He is telling people to avoid them because of the lifestyle that those habits produce. When we eat or drink too much we become groggy (read hungover) and it takes a while for us to recover. Who hasn’t crashed out on the couch from too much turkey on Thanksgiving? A lifestyle like this though will, in the end, bankrupt the person.
Growing the Fruit of Self-Control
This proverb is all about self-control. Ironically is it is also one the Spiritual Fruit that Paul talks about in Galatians. As we grow closer to the Lord, the fruit of self-control should manifest itself in our lives. Sadly, many Christians struggle with overeating. Does this mean that God is judging them? No, not at all. Paul tells us in Romans that even he did the things he didn’t want to do and didn’t do the things he should be doing. All of us struggle with issues like these.
Get the Help You Need
The Struggle with Self-Control is real. If we are struggling with issues like gluttony or alcoholism we need help. James tells us to bring our need to the Elders so they can pray for us. He also tells us to bear one another burdens. Prayer and accountability is the only way that we are going to overcome this. Don’t let your shame or guilt keep you from seeking help. Go and get the support you need.