Why do you drink alcohol?

I do not drink ....

It is rather like I do not eat liver. I can't stand the smell or taste of liver, and I really do not like the taste of alcohol.

 

Why? I've never ever come across that kind of thing before. It just wouldn't register with me that a non-Christian mught say "oh, you've just had a pint of Deuchars, you can't possibly speak to me about the Gospel". What's the historical/ cultural background round your way for what you say? I'm intrigued...

Ann, would it be OK for your husband to say to your yachty friends that he doesn't drink when 'on duty' and, because he's a minister, he's always 'on duty'? Surely they'd accept that kind of explanation?

 

Because it "gladdens the heart of man", is not prohibited, used as it should is viewed as a blessing in the Bible, I like beer, our Savior drank wine, etc.

Would we dare ask God when we get to Heaven why He did? Who here will refuse the best wine God offers us in Isaiah 25:6?

Why do people eat fast food? Why do people eat junk food? This poll could easily apply to just about everything we consume...

 

I have to agree. This has been my experience.

Absolutely. That's an excellent reason not to drink.

Yes, I can't agree more. At the same time, we need to be careful not to misjudge those who are in situations other than our own. There may indeed be some situations where nonbelievers would see moderate alcohol consumption as a problem... case in point, ministry to Mormons in Mormon-dominated areas.

 

Not too sure about that. I have not had a drink in about 35 years. I go to all kinds of functions where drink is the norm and know that people do not see it as a 'holier than thou' attitude. They always respect me and my choice graciously. I don't think drink is needed to help us 'connect' even amongst the lost.

I do appreciate your stand and your consistency with drink today :thumbs:

 

I think it's OK if you say 'up front' that you don't drink at all. Now, the recipient of that statement may wonder why you don't drink and speculate as to all manner of reasons, from you being 'religious' to you being a recovering alcoholic, but s/he will generally accept that explanation. It's a bit different though if you're offered a drink and simply refuse it without explanation.

 

I think it comes down to attitude Matt. I normally just say, 'No thanks, your grand.' and I am offered a Coke or water. If asked I just say that I don't drink - never a conflict - even the Irish drink culture.

 

You ask for a thousand dollars instead?

 

Whoops, 'You're grand'

 

I think that's a great explanation. I think it's the same thing with our own youth pastor.

 

My youngest brother, who is now 65, and loves his beer. He gave up driving a motorcar so he cold drink beer freely.

He came to help me install ceilings in my new house. It took me weeks to get up the nerve, but I did go to the local liguor store and bought a case of 24 pints of his favourite beer. I put it in our refrigerator to keep it cold for him.

Long story short, he was so upset that I would actualy buy beer even though it was for him that he wouldn't touch one pint and he brought his own with him. I had to give the case of beer to a neighbour. That was the last time I entered that liquor store to buy alcohol for anyone.

Once a stand is taken, stay true to it. Your witness may very well be at stake.

Cheers,

Jim

 

I drink in moderation because I like the taste of beer and certain mixed drinks (I don't like wine), and it does help me relax and "feel good". I usually only drink at home, but occasionally will have a drink or two at a restaurant if someone else is driving.

Also, some studies have shown that people who have had coronary by-pass surgery are less likely to need to have surgery again if they have a couple of drinks each day. I definitely don't want to go through that surgery again.

 

I occasionally have an alcoholic drink ,it is always in a social setting and most commonly when out with friends.

I find a glass that you nurse is quite sufficient for the most part and because alcohol generally sets me up for a migraine, I go for a mineral water or other soft option.

I did use to enjoy a scotch but that is a thing of the past.:type:

 

Excellent perspective

 

I do not drink, never did, never intend to. There's nothing to be gained by it. Especially when I've seen what it's done to so many around me. I don't need alcohol to fit in, feel good, relax or otherwise.

In terms of culture, it is not acceptable to be twice born and drink alcohol in our parts.

 

For the record, neither do it. However, there are still reasons why Christians may choose to appropriately use alcohol which do not fit the categories you listed.

Fair enough. But let me ask, is that your church culture, or is it in terms of the culture of your region, both believers and non-believers?

 

Since I am also in Ohio, I can say it is not region. Maybe it's PJ's church or denomination?