St. Patrick’s Day is associated with revelry, parades and an abundance of alcohol consumption. However, for Christians, this holiday presents an opportunity to reflect on our faith and how we interact with society based on the principles outlined in the Bible.
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While the festivities may seem enticing, there are compelling reasons rooted in Scripture to abstain from drinking on St. Patrick’s Day. Here are seven reasons to consider:
- Maintaining Self-Control: In the book of Proverbs, we are reminded of the importance of self-control. Proverbs 20:1 cautions, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever is deceived by it is not wise.” As Christians, we are called to exercise discipline over our actions and choices, living by a higher standard that what is found in the world. Consuming alcohol can impair judgment and lead to behavior contrary to the virtues and commands we strive to uphold.
- Honoring God with our Bodies: The apostle Paul admonishes believers in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, stating, “What? Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God, and that you are not your own? You were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Engaging in drinking celebrations can poison the temple of the Holy Spirit, which is our body, and dishonor God.
- Setting a Positive Example: Being a follower of Christ, our actions should reflect His teachings and serve as a light to others. In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul instructs Timothy, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.” By abstaining from drinking, we demonstrate obedience to God’s Word and set a positive example for fellow believers and non-believers alike, opening the door for others to draw closer to Jesus.
- Avoiding Temptation and Stumbling Blocks: Romans 14:21 warns, “It is good neither to eat meat nor to drink wine, nor anything whereby your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.” Participating in activities that may lead others to stumble or be tempted to sin contradicts the love and consideration we are called to demonstrate towards our brothers and sisters in Christ as Paul explained to the church in Rome.
- Protecting Mental Clarity: Ephesians 5:18 advises, “Do not be drunk with wine, for that is reckless living. But be filled with the Spirit.” Intoxication dulls our senses and inhibits our ability to be filled with the Holy Spirit. By refraining from consuming alcohol, we maintain mental clarity and openness to God’s guidance and presence in our lives.
- Avoiding Harm and Destruction: Proverbs 23:29-32 paints a vivid picture of the consequences of excessive drinking, stating, “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has babbling? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who tarry long at the wine, those who go to seek mixed wine. Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly; at the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper.” Choosing sobriety safeguards us from the potential harm and destruction that accompany drunkenness.
- Fulfilling the Greatest Commandment: Jesus affirms the greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37-39, saying, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” By prioritizing our relationship with God and loving our neighbors, we honor Him and fulfill His commandments, even in the midst of festivities that promote drinking.
Our choices as Christians should be guided by biblical principles and a desire to honor God in all aspects of our lives.
While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations may abound with a multitude of opportunities for drinking alcohol, we must remember and consider the wisdom of the Bible and strive to live in accordance with God’s will, exemplifying self-control, love, obedience and submission. Ensuring that our actions on this day and every day reflect the light of Christ to the world around us.{eoa}
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Charisma News Staff
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