Do You Drink?

[StrawberryQueen]

I'm talking about alcohol of course.

I've read int he Bible MANY instance sof people drinking. But I've also read of the virtues of not being "drunk" and not drinking.

How do you interpret these varying scriptures? To drink moderatly? To drink just enough that you don't get drunk? To drink at special occasaions? To not drink at all?

 

[Nice & Wavy]

Personally, I don't drink at all because I don't want my spirit impared.

 

[dlewis]

I had started drinking over the sumer but I stopped in September. I don't see anything wrong with a little sip here and there.

 

[live2bgr8]

You are opening a can of worms, aren't you? But to answer your question: Rarely. 1-5 times in a year (ie. anniversary, Valentine's Day, or birthdays) and mainly with my husband. We don't drink socially with other people.

Usually, we even toast New Years and Christmas with Apple Cidar because of the family and social aspect of these holidays.

The word can be interpreted in many ways concerning this subject. However, we choose not to socially drink, drink often, or over indulge out of sensitivity and respect for anyone who may stumble (including ourselves).

ETA: As dlewis said, I personally don't see anything wrong with a sip here or there. But wisdom and jugdement should be used. I don't look down upon Christians (condemn them in my mind) who choose to drink more often than we do or who drink socially. I just think a believer should ask herself or himself "why am I drinking alcohol?" If any of the answers lead to sin. It's best not to touch the stuff.

 

[PaperClip]

I tried twice to drink in college and both times was like "eh". It was thrill-less and pointless. (I think the Lord set it up that way for me!) So nope. I don't "imbibe!" LOL! I also do not like to be impaired by anything and I also (slightly) feel like I don't want to feed any addictive behaviors.

I believe the scripture allows(?) for the consumption of alcohol for medicinal purposes. I believe 1 Corinthians 10:23 ("All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.") kind of allows for the person to interpret the first scripture as permission to engage in social drinking. I think that there's a fine line with regard to social drinking as a gateway to addictive behavior, e.g., drunkeness.

 

[ShaniKeys]

Nope, not even on New Year's Eve Sober as a baby hihihi

 

[Shimmie]

We are definitely NOT to get drunk nor to drink as if it's our 'daily bread.'

Proverbs: "Wine is a Mocker...strong drink is raging."

I do not advocate drinking. Although, I have had champagne to toast the Bride and Groom..at Christian weddings. I've also had wine with dinner with my very closet friends. I even attended a church where red wine was used for communion (it was purposely mixed with the grape juice).

Personally, I don't care for the taste of alcohol, so it's extremely rare that I ever have it. I don't believe in drinking hard liquor. I don't believe in drinking beer. Drinking is not attractive, neither is it wise. I've seen too many fools behind the wheel of a car and in other forms of activities which were a danger/threat/offense to those innocent and even themselves.

I do not condemn anyone who drinks, that's totally unfair to them.

I have 'friends' and family members who drink on occasion and I will still be right there as their friend. I love them. There are some wonderful people in this world who drink that would not harm a fly. I just don't want them to be unsafe or unhealthy or unresponsible or dependent upon it.

What I've seen of concern are Christians who justify drinking only to hold on to it as a crutch or a partying lifestyle. We need to take control here; not be controlled.

Drinking doesn't solve one's problems. It only makes them worse and the concern I have is a dependency that one may encounter upon alcohol to change their world for the better, when in reality it cannot.

A "Toast" to each of you... a 'Toast' of love.

 

[melodee]

You are opening a can of worms, aren't you? But to answer your question: Rarely. 1-5 times in a year (ie. anniversary, Valentine's Day, or birthdays) and mainly with my husband. We don't drink socially with other people.

Usually, we even toast New Years and Christmas with Apple Cidar because of the family and social aspect of these holidays.

The word can be interpreted in many ways concerning this subject. However, we choose not to socially drink, drink often, or over indulge out of sensitivity and respect for anyone who may stumble (including ourselves).

ETA: As dlewis said, I personally don't see anything wrong with a sip here or there. But wisdom and jugdement should be used. I don't look down upon Christians (condemn them in my mind) who choose to drink more often than we do or who drink socially. I just think a believer should ask herself or himself "why am I drinking alcohol?" If any of the answers lead to sin. It's best not to touch the stuff.

I was going to reply with something profound, but you took the words right outta my mouth. Well said!

I have seen many of my believer friends drink, get tipsy, and do/say things that IMO show they are not in control of their thoughts and actions. I hate when Christians use that "I won't drink in front of you because I don't want to cause a fellow Christian to stumble". To this I say" Who me? Don't you worry about me. I can handle my own biz. It's you I worry about!"

As klouis stated-- I would never judge another or doubt their salvation. An alcholic drink isn't prohibited--it's the lack of contol that comes with drunkeness. But please Christians (and anyone for that matter), if you see I'm not drinking, don't get an attitude and think I'm trying to be better. And please still invite me out, I shouldn't be the one giving you a guilty consience...if you are okay with it, then it won't matter what I'm drinking.

 

[melodee]

We are definitely NOT to get drunk nor to drink as if it's our 'daily bread.'

Proverbs: "Wine is a Mocker...strong drink is raging."

I do not advocate drinking. Although, I have had champagne to toast the Bride and Groom..at Christian weddings. I've also had wine with dinner with my very closet friends. I even attended a church where red wine was used for communion (it was purposely mixed with the grape juice).

Personally, I don't care for the taste of alcohol, so it's extremely rare that I ever have it. I don't believe in drinking hard liquor. I don't believe in drinking beer. Drinking is not attractive, neither is it wise. I've seen too many fools behind the wheel of a car and in other forms of activities which were a danger/threat/offense to those innocent and even themselves.

I do not condemn anyone who drinks, that's totally unfair to them.

I have 'friends' and family members who drink on occasion and I will still be right there as their friend. I love them. There are some wonderful people in this world who drink that would not harm a fly. I just don't want them to be unsafe or unhealthy or unresponsible or dependent upon it.

What I've seen of concern are Christians who justify drinking only to hold on to it as a crutch or a partying lifestyle. We need to take control here; not be controlled.

Drinking doesn't solve one's problems. It only makes them worse and the concern I have is a dependency that one may encounter upon alcohol to change their world for the better, when in reality it cannot.

A "Toast" to each of you... a 'Toast' of love.

Right, shimmie! And many of those Christians are the ones who say "Let's not go to Melodee's party cause she isn't serving liquor. Or say, let's not invite Mel's family because they are those "non-drinkers" . When Mel is not judging anyone.

 

[Xavier]

The bible doesn't necessarily talk about NOT drinking. But it clearly speaks of intoxication. Alcohol in itself is not a sin nor in drinking IMO. It is the consumption of alcohol that could potentially lead you to sin that you have to watch out for. I don't drink too often because I am very petite and in the past drinking more than two drinks of anything has gotten me into trouble. Also occassionaly with I do have a sip of something it's some sort of wine not hard liquior(don't even know if that makes a difference).

 

[Keen]

I drink a mix drink or wine every now and then. I've only gotten tipsy (not drunk) once. I would never go pass 2 drinks because I know 3 or 4 is my limit (I'm not sure though and don't want to find out). I have rarely get a third drink. I only do so if my roommate is arround.

Basically I have no desire to drink enough to get drunk. I just don't care to ever fine myself in such situation. So I watch what I drink.

 

[Shimmie]

Right, shimmie! And many of those Christians are the ones who say "Let's not go to Melodee's party cause she isn't serving liquor. Or say, let's not invite Mel's family because they are those "non-drinkers" . When Mel is not judging anyone.

You know what Melodee...I've been to so many Christian weddings that have an 'Open Bar.' Geesh! I mean, I can see having a "Toast" to the Bride and Groom. But the Open Bar is just a little much for me. It's no different than a secular event and the guests are in and out of the section where the drinks are served, more than at the food tables.

I dunno. I hope no one here feels condemned. I promise you, that's not my intention. But I just feel that there has to be a difference between us and the world, that's all. We as Christians need to set a standard. We don't 'go crazy' as the world does and we have enough problems with alcholism...far too much.

However: If a Christian husband and wife want to share a glass of wine or Champagne in the privacy of their own space, go for it. Relax and enjoy each other... Lay Back and Enjoy yourselves.

I'm only good for one or two sips anyway. After that I'm

 

[Divine Inspiration]

No, I don't drink. I don't see the purpose. I don't consider anything that impairs me as an aid to "having a good time." I'm one of those people who is high off of life so I'm giddy without help.

I have acquaintances who drink in moderation, and I don't mind them doing it. I just have cranberry juice or mineral water instead.

I don't judge people who choose to drink, but I'm SERIOUSLY irritated with people who insist on teasing, mocking or pressuring me because of my choices. It's MY liver, my mind, and my spirit...I let other folks live their lives, and they should let me live mine. Felt good to get that out.

 

[ArrrBeee]

Yes. I will have a glass of wine or a margarita on occasion. I don't drink to get drunk though.

To me drinking too much is just as bad as doing anything else in excess ( eating, shopping, etc.).

 

[deejoy]

Rarely. A lot of liquor is too strong and burns my lungs. A few years ago, I had to go to ER because my tonsils had gotten extremely swollen from the alcohol burning my lungs. So because of that, I dont drink too much.What I don't care for, is the social pressure. My friend had a 25th birthday party and one of her friends kept encouraging me to have some (probably very nasty) concoction that he made up. And he did that like 10 times that night. I politely declined each time because I didnt feel like launching into an explanation about my trip to ER a while back. I just wish people would accept my choice not to drink.

 

[live2bgr8]

[/b]

I was going to reply with something profound, but you took the words right outta my mouth. Well said!

I have seen many of my believer friends drink, get tipsy, and do/say things that IMO show they are not in control of their thoughts and actions. I hate when Christians use that "I won't drink in front of you because I don't want to cause a fellow Christian to stumble". To this I say" Who me? Don't you worry about me. I can handle my own biz. It's you I worry about!"

As klouis stated-- I would never judge another or doubt their salvation. An alcholic drink isn't prohibited--it's the lack of control that comes with drunkeness. But please Christians (and anyone for that matter), if you see I'm not drinking, don't get an attitude and think I'm trying to be better. And please still invite me out, I shouldn't be the one giving you a guilty consience...if you are okay with it, then it won't matter what I'm drinking.

See that's the key point right there-- anything that controls the flesh (food, sex, drink, etc.) can cause problems in the physical realm. Which in turn, hinders the power of the Holy Spirit. If one can not control their flesh, then they can not have the full power they need in Spiritual matters. But if a believer can control the physical body, then they can have more clarity and power in spiritual matters.

Sometimes it comes down to "Will I feed my flesh, or will I feed my Spirit?"

This is the wisdom for not over indulging in anything. God knows "the Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" for all believers in one area or another....

However, the flesh is only the house (temple) the Spirit lives in and one day it will be time to move.

 

[baby42]

not any more glad i stop its not for me but each it own i take meds so they do not mix ant trying to kill my self

 

[MrsQueeny]

No. I tried it once when I was young and being stupid but never got into it. Plus it takes very little to get me drunk. I once got tipsy from taking Nyquil, no lie, lol. I also witnessed my step-grandfather beating my grandmother when he would get drunk and my other grandfather died of liver complications and he was a heavy drinker. I don't judge people who do but I hate when people try to convince me to do it. Q

 

[Shimmie]

Yes. I will have a glass of wine or a margarita on occasion. I don't drink to get drunk though.

To me drinking too much is just as bad as doing anything else in excess ( eating, shopping, etc.).

Shopping ??? Oh Rapunzel, I thought we 'was girls' Please don't take 'shopping' away... Oh no!

Okay, I have just one more sale to go to. Victoria's Secret is 75% off now and the last day of this sale is tomorrow (Thurs...Jan 25). After that, I'll quit...cold Turkey....I'll quit. Not even a 'peep'..... at the websites....

But .... but .... BBW just sent me a free lotion coupon for any purchase.... Ummmmmm.....

I hear you Girl.... (((( Sister Hugs ))))

 

[Radianthealth]

I don't like to drink. But I think everything in moderation. I drink maybe 3 times per year and when I do it is no more than 2 glasses. Usually when I do drink it is because someone pushes it on me I was thinking about having a dry year, but my inlaws pushed some champagne on me on New Years. I am going to see how long I can go without a drink.

I am pretty sure I can do it for the rest of my life, we didn't even drink at our wedding

 

[StrawberryQueen]

Rarely. A lot of liquor is too strong and burns my lungs. A few years ago, I had to go to ER because my tonsils had gotten extremely swollen from the alcohol burning my lungs. So because of that, I dont drink too much.What I don't care for, is the social pressure. My friend had a 25th birthday party and one of her friends kept encouraging me to have some (probably very nasty) concoction that he made up. And he did that like 10 times that night. I politely declined each time because I didnt feel like launching into an explanation about my trip to ER a while back. I just wish people would accept my choice not to drink.

You shoulda just karate choped him and been done with it. But for real, him pushing it on you would have made me paranoid-why did you HAVE to drink it?

Scary.

 

[kbragg]

Nope, not I! As my Pastor says: "We're not sippin' saints church!" I personally hate alchohol. Hate the taste of it. Only drank when I was a sinner because I wanted to forget but it was more trouble than it was worth. Plus hang overs ick! And what it does to your body! Proverbs was pretty clear on it. Even the little bit of reservatrol that you "supposedly" get from Red Wine does not counter what it does to your bodies PH. To each her own, in the end it's all between us and God right?

 

[Plenty]

Personally, I don't drink at all because I don't want my spirit impared.

Same here, and for health purposes.

I heard a friend say that as long as you don't get drunk it's okay.

 

[Shimmie]

Same here, and for health purposes.

I heard a friend say that as long as you don't get drunk it's okay.

If I'm 'hearing' this from a 'casual' point of view then that's a dangerous concept; for it doesn't take the downfalls of alcohol seriously and it misleads one to think they can drink more than they should.

 

[Browndilocks]

I grew up in a very strict Pentecostal household where there was no alcohol whatsoever. We couldn't do anything. No music, no TV, no pants...NOTHING! I couldn't even participate in certain elementary school plays that had dancing etc. While I truly appreciate my upbringing and believe that I have a "covering" as a result, I just cannot live like that. I have to live as an adult by what is acceptable to my understanding of the Word, and if it is wrong, I pray that God reveals that to me, and touches my heart so that I can change my mind and actions.

Therefore... I do enjoy the occassional glass of wine. I might even get a martini if I'm out with friends. In fact, if I ever get married, there will more than likely be an open bar at the reception. What's the difference between drinking alcohol to toast a bride and groom, and drinking it to toast a girls night out with good friends? Both are celebratory events. I feel that drinking is a choice for each individual person to make. Plus, I'm not the type of person to throw a big party (like a wedding reception) and limit what my guests can have. I'm an all or nothing kind of person in that sense. I'm not talking about being in an utterly drunken state, but I really don't see anything wrong with it.

People burn candles and run bathwater to set the ambiance for their spirit when they need it. They rub penetrating oils and lotions onto their skin to allow their bodies to absorb the oil's essence. They play soothing music to relax them and get their mind off of things. Don't you know that stuff like that can possibly get set the tone for many different types of spirits, if you know what I mean... especially if you're not married. Some people say "Oh - I don't drink", but they fornicate, or lie habitually, or are just plain old evil... but Christians.

So because the bible doesn't directly state that drinking is a sin, as it does with fornication etc. then I really don't believe that drinking in moderation is a sin at all. Especially when they were drinking it up like crazy in the bible days. God isn't a "do as I say, not as I do" type of God anyway.

 

[Bublnbrnsuga]

I had started drinking over the sumer but I stopped in September. I don't see anything wrong with a little sip here and there.

What you say Dlewis? Ain't nothing wrong with a little taste!

I started drinking about 2 years ago about twice a year. My favorite drink USED to be a midouri sour until I discovered what I was really in love with was the sweet and sour mix! No more alcohol for me since I can buy the mix and use it in my juices.

 

[dlewis]

What you say Dlewis? Ain't nothing wrong with a little taste!

I started drinking about 2 years ago about twice a year. My favorite drink USED to be a midouri sour until I discovered what I was really in love with was the sweet and sour mix! No more alcohol for me since I can buy the mix and use it in my juices.

yep, that's what I say.

Nice portrait BBS.............

j/k

 

[Shimmie]

I love "Perrier" ... that's my daily grown up drink. Ummmm Hmmmmm

I love to make Mamosa's with it too.... "Yummie" Orange and Pineapple juice mixed with Perrier (Lime or Lemon)

 

[Crackers Phinn]

Yes. I drink (surprise!)

I have always liked the taste of wine and as a little kid, I was royally pissed when my church went PC and switched from wine to grape juice for first Sunday communion.

I felt really blessed after that one ounce of Maneschevietz hit the spot!

Jokes folks Jokes.

Really, I like the taste of beer and wine and when I can manage the points in my weight watchers planned meals, I might get me a little taste with dinner.

 

[dlewis]

Yes. I drink (surprise!)

I have always liked the taste of wine and as a little kid, I was royally pissed when my church went PC and switched from wine to grape juice for first Sunday communion.

I felt really blessed after that one ounce of Maneschevietz hit the spot!

Jokes folks Jokes.

Really, I like the taste of beer and wine and when I can manage the points in my weight watchers planned meals, I might get me a little taste with dinner.

Sorry, O.T. when are you gonna update your album?