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What Does the Bible Say About Drinking Alcohol?

Scripture reveals that alcohol itself is not forbidden, but drunkenness clouds judgment, weakens self-control, and can harm others—making sobriety and awareness central to following Jesus.

Scripture on Drinking Alcohol

Ephesians 5:18 New Testament
"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit."
Proverbs 20:1 Old Testament
"Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise."
1 Corinthians 10:23-24 New Testament
"I have the right to do anything, you say—but not everything is beneficial. Not everything is constructive. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others."
Proverbs 31:4-5 Old Testament
"It is not for kings, Lemuel—it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights."
Romans 14:21 New Testament
"It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall."
The Bottom Line
Your body is God's temple; guard your mind and decisions jealously.
Try Today

If you drink, examine one specific situation this week where you'll choose not to—not from shame, but from freedom. What matters more: this drink, or full clarity of mind?

Prayer

Jesus invites us to come honestly with our struggles: 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened' (Matthew 11:28).

Father, I confess that I sometimes use things—food, drink, screens—to escape what I should face. Give me the courage to stay awake to my own heart and the world around me. Help me choose what strengthens my spirit and protects those I love, not what dims my judgment. If I struggle with alcohol, show me that with clarity. Make me a person of self-control, not because I'm ashamed, but because I'm free. In Jesus' name, Amen.

📚 Read Proverbs 23, which speaks directly about wine, folly, and discernment.

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