WALK PROPERLY

READING: ROMANS 13:8-14

Verse 13: “Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy.”

The Bible cautions very strongly against drunkenness. New Testament scriptures list drunkenness side by side with other sins which many would consider to be much more damaging. Even the first record of drunkenness in the Bible illustrates the level of consequences it produces. Genesis 9 describes the incident where the drunkenness of Noah caused a compromising situation for his sons. The result was that one of his sons was cursed. Furthermore, it does seem that a curse has continued to accompany this abusive behavior as it has occurred. This curse is alcoholism and the devastation that alcoholism produces. Drunkenness is such a threat to mankind that it has produced a fearsome biblical warning. God’s word promises that drunkards will not inherit the Kingdom of God. In addition to that, it is a blessing that we are provided more than only this severe warning. It is a blessing that Romans 13:13 also offers a victory producing alternative to drunkenness. Those who choose to turn to this verse will have the threat of condemnation removed and will have the goodness of the Lord fulfilled. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. What seems to you to be the most serious result of alcoholism today?

2. What would result if Romans 13:13 were to be honored?