It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to desire beer. Otherwise, they will drink, forget what is decreed, and pervert justice for all the oppressed. Proverbs 31:4-5 HCSB
Alcohol is one of the most socially acceptable substances in our society. It seems that almost everyone drinks alcohol. Gallup reports that sixty-seven percent of Americans drink alcohol with beer being the favorite, followed by wine and then liquor. The media plays up drinking as the “cool” thing to do. It presents the deceptive picture that if one drinks he will be popular and have all the fun in life. The commercials never show the wrecked lives of those addicted to alcohol or the scenes of automobile accidents caused by drunk drivers.
Because alcohol is so acceptable, it is one of the most dangerous drugs. Alcohol can damage the liver and brain, contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, and a depressed immune system not to mention that alcohol causes one to make bad decisions that often lead to financial losses, broken relationships, and even injury or death.
It is for these reasons that Solomon reminds us that wine is not for rulers. A king or ruler needs to have a sharp mind, capable of making good decisions and rendering justice fairly. If you are the one standing before the king, you certainly want him to be sober and in his right mind before making any decisions or rules that affect you or others. If this is good advice for the king, then it certainly is good advice for others as well.
Challenge: Do not be swayed by the popular opinion that everyone is drinking. Be one of the thirty-three percent who do not drink alcohol. Do not believe the commercials telling you that drinking will bring happiness and fun. Pray that God will give you the strength to take a stand and set an example to abstain from drinking alcohol.