Drinking and Wisdom

This is the time of year people have two different opinions of "Merry and Bright" lol

Proverbs 20:1 (NLT) Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls. Those led astray by drink cannot be wise.

With the holiday celebrations in full swing, I have actually seen this in action! When adult beverage is involved, people are not very responsible. At the first sign of a ‘buzz’ people start to joke and make comments that could be considered mocking. Then a few more drinks in, and a comment leads to inappropriate behaviors, that end up causing some sort of disagreement which leads to some kind of fight. Sure, maybe verbal, but physical as well.

It was the last line here that got me: Those led astray by drink cannot be wise. I know for me personally, when I have had alcohol, I can be a bit brain-dead with my actions and choices. Have you ever been around someone that knows that when they have had too much to drink, they are “easier” to coax into things? It could be spending money, trying risky things, or even doing thigs they normally wouldn’t do. Yup = unwise. The thing is, the brain gets all foggy, and then that affects everything from decision making to self-control.

Boy howdy do I know, that it is a slippery slope from one drink and a little buzz to several drinks and all loss of control! It is not wrong to have a drink. It is wrong to drink with the full intention of getting drunk, that is what the bible tells us is wrong. I for one do not set out to “get drunk” and lose all control, but it has happened, when I have not been wise about where I am and how much I have had. Then I totally become this person here in Proverbs – unwise. The Lord wants us to be wise and always on the alert. We cannot do or be that with a foggy head. NEVER, EVER should we make big decisions and have any alcohol involved! That is just asking for trouble! THAT is when people that are not fully honest WILL lead us astray!

Know yourself and your limits. Have a ‘buddy system’ in place, that you and a friend can count on each other to NOT let the other one become this Proverbs person. If it is too hard, or you don’t have a friend that would help keep you accountable – then don’t go! Don’t even put yourself in harm’s way. If you do go, then take your own beverage. Don’t let anyone add anything to it. Keep it in your hands the whole time.

Hubby and I pray before we go. We ask the Holy Spirit to kick us if we start going astray and getting into the danger zone. We also have left many places early due to not wanting to be involved in what we can see coming. I am praying for you, that you can enjoy all of the celebrations and NOT fall into unwise actions that lead to consequences J Be well, be safe, and be blessed!!