“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” – Ephesians 5:18
Bible Verses About Intoxication
The Nature of Intoxication
Intoxication can change our perception and lead us astray from our true paths. The Bible discusses the nature of intoxication, reminding us that it can cloud our judgment and lead to actions we may later regret. When we participate in behaviors that bring about intoxication, we distance ourselves from God’s will for our lives. We often find that substance abuse is more than just a physical ailment; it can spiritually separate us from the light of God. It is crucial that we remain alert and aware of ourselves and our surroundings, as the state of being intoxicated can have profound effects on our relationship with God, ourselves, and those around us.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” – Proverbs 23:20-21
Isaiah 5:11
“Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” – Isaiah 5:11
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” – Proverbs 20:1
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” – Galatians 5:19-21
The Consequences of Intoxication
Intoxication doesn’t just impact us physically or mentally; it can also bring devastating consequences in our lives and the lives of those around us. The Scriptures warn us repeatedly about the pitfalls associated with alcohol and other substances. These verses tell us that embracing intoxication can lead us down a rocky road filled with regret, poor choices, and spiritual turmoil. When we choose a life of intoxication, we often cultivate a state of being that separates us from our purpose and the blessings God has for each of us. Through understanding the consequences, we align ourselves with God’s desire for our lives and choose paths that honor Him.
Proverbs 23:32
“In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” – Proverbs 23:32
Proverbs 6:27-29
“Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.” – Proverbs 6:27-29
Proverbs 31:4-5
“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.” – Proverbs 31:4-5
Isaiah 28:7
“The priests and prophets stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.” – Isaiah 28:7
Hosea 4:11
“To prostitution; old wine and new wine take away their understanding.” – Hosea 4:11
The Spirit-Filled Life Against Intoxication
As we move through life, we have a choice to be filled with something greater than the fleeting pleasures of intoxication. When we choose to fill ourselves with the Holy Spirit, we provide a space for lasting joy and peace in our lives. A spirit-filled life enriches our experience and connects us to the source of strength, hope, and guidance. Through prayer and community, we can bolster each other against the temptations of substance abuse and embody the freedom found in living a life devoid of intoxication. The empowerment we gain from being filled with the Spirit allows us to navigate life’s challenges and help others do the same.
Ephesians 5:18-19
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” – Ephesians 5:18-19
Romans 14:21
“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.” – Romans 14:21
1 Corinthians 10:23
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive.” – 1 Corinthians 10:23
1 Corinthians 6:12
“I have the right to do anything,” you say, but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.” – 1 Corinthians 6:12
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Seeking Comfort in God Instead of Intoxication
In times of distress and sorrow, we may be tempted to seek comfort through intoxication. Yet, God offers us a different path. He invites us to rely on Him as our source of refuge and strength. Through prayers and scripture, we learn that God wishes to comfort us in all our troubles. By turning our focus toward God, we redirect our desire for comfort from substances to the unfailing love and peace He provides. This choice can greatly influence our lives and the lives of those around us.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your