Better Drinking

On my to work, coming and going, I pass a “package” store, a strange title to me for a place that sells wine, beer, and liquor. One would almost be inclined to think there was something sinister or criminal going on that the owner would be afraid to name the type of product customers are shopping for. The joke about Baptists and Methodists not recognizing each in the liquor store comes to mind. Anyway, on the marquee, besides advertising some special of the week, is an oft-used phrase in the “package” business; enjoy responsibly.

Without quibbling too much, I do take issue with the thrust of what is called “responsible”. In most cases, we focus on the second table without a consideration of the first. In other words, we place offenses against man with a solemnity rarely given to God. How often are we saddened when hearing about a death caused by a drunk driver? Usually we are, and rightly so. But are we just as moved when the gift of alcohol is abused in general, and God’s commandment is disregarded? For every one drunk driver there are 10 more who get home unscathed. There are 20 more who use alcohol as a crutch or to drown the misery of life. Do we weep for these?

And not only weeping, but do we resolve to provide testimony on how to honor the Creator in His gift of alcohol? Do we show the watching world how to be responsible to both God and man? Sadly, our answer is no. Instead of honoring Him, we disregard the gift as if the problem were in the bottle rather than us.

The next time you drink, resolve to truly enjoy responsibly; ponder your duty to man and to the God of the Bible, Who will require us to be responsible whether men are looking or not.