It is not for kings, O Lemuel,
It is not for kings to drink wine,
Or for rulers to desire strong drink,
Lest he drink and forget what is decreed,
And pervert the justice of all the afflicted.

Proverbs 31:4–5 (LSB)

I’ve noticed with increasing frequency that not only are more pastors and even Christians in general drinking more openly, there seems to be a growing number that are using social media to promote their newfound freedom, with some even encouraging others to join in.

Now, before someone makes a comment about drinking not being a sin, and that taking a position of abstaining from alcohol is “legalistic” and is yet another troubling result of fundamentalism, I want to be clear that I understand that drinking alcohol is not a sin, per se. I also understand that there are some that add to the Scriptures and state that all drinking of alcohol is sin, and not simply to be drunk. I don’t agree, even though I do not personally drink alcohol.

I am specifically addressing the issue from a place of wisdom, and in particular, as a spiritual leader. I, of course, mean pastors and elders, but I also am speaking of those men that lead their homes as well. There are other types of leadership—at work, school, etc., but I am thinking primarily of the higher levels of leadership in particular where many others may be influences either by our example or by our decisions—and often by both.

In Proverbs 31:4-5 we have a good reason for any spiritual leader to think seriously about his use of alcohol because of the fallout that might occur if he does so. When the Bible addresses leaders, particularly those such as kings who functioned in judicial as well as civil matters, we must understand that alcohol is not presented in as neutral a place as some would suggest.

Along with foreign wives (and multiplied wives) that will bring ruin to a king, the authority and influence we wield is to be taken seriously by leaders, particularly in regard to consumption of alcohol. Leaders are to be servants to those they lead, and must do so fairly and carefully.

All too many leaders see those they lead as servants who exist to meet their needs. The godly leader works for those he serves. This means he must be able to think clearly and biblically, even sacrificing freedoms and liberties that others enjoy in order to be a better servant leader. To be intoxicated blurrs the ability to do so, and could lead to injustice against those that depend upon the leader.

I want to be a good father and husband, as well as a friend, pastor, and neighbor. I want all those who speak with me and look toward me as an example to be able to trust that I am sober in every way, and that my counsel, words, and actions are uninhibited and clear in any given moment. Strong drink can muddy the senses and can easily slide into sinful drunkenness.

Wisdom says that kings should abstain so that they can be good servants to the people they lead. Yes, in my Christian liberty I am free to drink as long as I don’t get drunk. But I am also free to not drink, and therefore not find my mind hampered, my example followed into disaster, my tongue slipping into sinful speech, or my body craving something that I simply don’t need. I have enough battles in my life to face in my journey to holiness. Why would I choose to invite something into my life that I can do without and thus far have not missed?

I know there are a lot of Christians that would disagree with me because they feel they are free to drink and not sin. I don’t disagree. But I have seen the affects of alcohol on too many friends, family, and those who have testified as believers saved out of a life of drunkenness to see any benefit for drinking. For me, it is a matter of conviction, and from the above passage and others in the Bible, I am personally convicted that it is unwise for many—including myself, to drink.