By: Pastor Bob Alderman

First Baptist Church

I continue to be amazed that one of this nations biggest killers is still available to everyone over the age of 21. This killer not only kills physically but also destroys families, friendships, and jobs.

Lives are destroyed on a daily basis. This substance not only harms the one who uses it but also their families and those who are completely innocent.

This substance is alcohol. Beer, liquor, wine and “home brew” are but a few of these demons names.

The Bible speaks often on the danger of alcohol. 75 times in the Bible God says that drinking alcohol is destructive and forbidden. Proverbs 20:1 teaches us that “Wine produces mockers; liquor leads to brawls. Whoever is led astray by drink cannot be wise.” (NLT) Anyone who has ever spent much time around a bar or club knows the truth of this scripture. People who are quiet and friendly can become angry, argumentative and start fights with their best friends.

Proverbs 23:29-35 shows us that “Don't let the sparkle and smooth taste of wine deceive you.

For in the end it bites like a poisonous serpent; it stings like a viper. You will see hallucinations, and you will say crazy things. You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea, clinging to a swaying mast. And you will say,

"They hit me, but I didn't feel it. I didn't even know it when they beat me up. When will I wake up so I can have another drink?" (NLT)

Alcohol is a deceiver and it brings poison into your system! Under alcohols influence people do stupid things and say stupid things and it numbs your body to the point that you are not even aware of what is happening to your own body.

Jesus Christ Himself taught against drinking. In the Gospel of Luke He told us that alcohol breeds rebellion against responsibility and destruction. Luke 12:45-47 “But if the servant thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' and begins oppressing the other servants, partying, and getting drunk--well, the master will return unannounced and unexpected. He will tear the servant apart and banish him with the unfaithful. The servant will be severely punished, for though he knew his duty, he refused to do it.”

(NLT)

The Apostle Paul taught us in 1 Corinthians 6:10 lists drunks in the group of those who will not have a share in the Kingdom of God.

Those of you have been effected by the terror of alcohol know the truth of what the Bible says about it. I know some of you live in fear that your spouse will be drunk when they get home or your child will be able to once again crash the family car on the way home from a party.

I know the struggle of a family trying hard to make both ends meet when a large portion of your income is spend on alcohol or alcohol related bills.

Alcohol is a destroyer.

If you are drinking, stop now. If you cannot stop on your own seek out help from someone who is trained to help you. Do not let your family or your health suffer another day.

Many of you may say that this is simply the “Baptist way and doctrine” and you are partially right, but I also have a deeper understanding; My grandfather and my father were heavy drinkers, as was I. I have real life experience in the destruction alcohol brings to families and individuals.

Parents, you set the pattern for your children. 70 percent of all behavior is modeled behavior. They drink, because you drink or expose them to others who drink. Live your life the way you want your youth to live.

Jesus loves you, even if you are drinking and He wants you to be free from ALL things that bring you into bondage. He is willing and waiting for you to seek Him and His promised salvation.

Will you let the Grace and Mercy of God bring you peace today?

Remember that God Loves You! And so do I.