Ephesians 5:15–21 (NKJV)

15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.

Ephesians 5:15-21

Sober living is a call to the church and its members throughout the Word of God. While some split hairs over whether it is a sin to drink any alcohol, there is definite evidence to support the fact that being drunk is a sin. I personally do not drink, ever. I think it is a bad idea and a dangerous gamble. Drinking alcohol is a risk. Not knowing how your body will react to the effects of alcohol and the addictive nature of the substance, drinking is generally not worth the risk in my opinion. Even if you do have a strong will and do not allow yourself to get drunk, how do you know if your drinking will not lead someone else, weaker in their constitution, to drink and become addicted, an alcoholic? The best example is not to drink. The Bible, in several places, warns of the dangers of drinking. But, more importantly, it is imperative to live a sober life. Paul here discusses the need to walk “circumspectly,” or with a look all around you. Do not be foolish, unaware of your environment. Do not be pulled into a compromising situation by not being aware. In so doing, redeem the time and do not allow the evil of your day to overtake you and cause you to sin or fail.

Paul then moves on to encourage the Ephesians and other readers to be wise. Understanding the will of God gives not only direction, but also protection. Knowing that the will of God will lead you to the right places at the right times means that you will be protected and directed by the Spirit in what you do. Paul goes on to tell the disciples to not be drunk with wine (see prohibition of drunkenness discussion above), citing the danger of excess in anything, but to be filled with the Spirit, which will produce worship that glorifies God and brings joy to the hearts of the worshippers, and good conversation that uplifts and encourages. He extols the virtues of giving thanks to God and submitting to one another in the fear of God. These are the characteristics of a Spirit-filled believer, selfless and joyful, and aware of all the blessings and traps that could be around him or her. Ask the Lord for wisdom and determination to live in a way that glorifies God and edifies others. Be sober!

Artwork from https://i.pinimg.com/736x/95/9c/fb/959cfbd6e6ffe78f276ae0cca5e3c3f1.jpg and https://static1.squarespace.com/static/528916c1e4b0c442cc4cd552/55b43690e4b0406477916b31/574d29c427d4bdfe22a60196/1464674906581/Ephesians+5_18.jpg?format=1500w

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