Proverbs 31:4–5: It is not for kings, O Lemuel, It is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink; Lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted.
Insight
The anxious mother of Lemuel next warns against another sin—intemperance. The vice that degrades a man and makes him into a beast is shameful to everyone, especially kings. They are cities set on a hill. Men look, or ought to look, to them for guidance and example. How sad it is for kings to drink wine and for rulers to crave beer if they then become drunk and forget what the law decrees and deprive all the oppressed of their rights. Priest and prophet error through strong drink. A wise veto is set for the rulers of the church, that they should not be given to alcohol. 1
Application
Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise. Proverbs 20:1
It is not too difficult to understand the meaning behind “not wise.” It bluntly means that one who is led astray with alcohol is stupid. You will never be led away if your lips refuse the sips. That means you will always have the capacity to be wise, and you will never be testing the boundaries for stupidity. We definitely need His wisdom everyday, as we continue to live in this “great, big, stupid world.”
Motivation
Harlotry, wine, and new wine enslave the heart. Hosea 4:11
If one out of every fourteen who take their first sip will became an alcoholic, is it really worth taking that chance? – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, teach me how to be sober minded and Spirit filled.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
