What Does God Say About Drinking Alcohol? Yes, or No or Both?

If you are a Christian who is unsure about whether drinking alcohol is acceptable, it is important to note that the Bible mentions alcohol both positively and negatively. As followers of Christ, we aim to live in accordance with our faith. 

I’ve made the decision not to drink alcohol—not because I think having a drink is inherently wrong, but because I know my own tendencies. I genuinely enjoy the taste of draft beer and can drink it quickly, but I also know I’m prone to overindulge. I wouldn’t call myself an alcoholic, but I don’t want to take any chances or flirt with a line I’d rather not cross.

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the damage alcohol can cause. I’ve been personally affected by someone else’s addiction and have sat in AA meetings listening to powerful, heart-wrenching stories. Those testimonies stay with you. They’ve helped shape my perspective on alcohol and recovery.

As a former biblical counselor, I also feel a responsibility to lead by example. If someone struggling with addiction saw me drinking, I would never want to be a stumbling block to their recovery. It’s not just about personal conviction—it’s about love and awareness for others.

Honestly, alcohol doesn’t add anything of value to my life. It doesn’t help me relax or bring me joy—that’s what my faith and relationship with God are for. It’s also expensive, and I’d rather spend that money on things that truly matter to me.

It’s interesting how some people distance themselves from my husband Shawn and me simply because we don’t drink. We still have fun, laugh, and enjoy life fully—just without alcohol. I think sometimes our choice makes others feel uncomfortable, not because we judge them, but because our abstaining might trigger some inner reflection on their part.

Shawn has also chosen not to drink anymore. For him, it’s partly for the same reasons as mine, but primarily due to health concerns and medications that don’t mix well with alcohol.

Recently, I watched a thought-provoking video by Pastor Mike Winger that explores whether Christians should drink alcohol. He points out that the Bible doesn’t prohibit drinking entirely but warns strongly against drunkenness and overindulgence. Even Jesus turning water into wine didn’t endorse excess—it was a celebration, not a license to sin. The video is filled with scripture and offers a balanced, thoughtful take that I really appreciated.

In the end, it’s a personal choice rooted in wisdom, experience, and a desire to honor God in how I live.

So, what does God say?

The Bible acknowledges that wine can be a gift—Psalm 104:15 even describes it as something that gladdens the heart. But Scripture also gives clear warnings about the dangers of drunkenness. In the video I mentioned, there are numerous Bible references that show both the blessings and the potential harm alcohol can bring.

Being drunk can lead to poor decisions, harm our physical and mental health, impair judgment, damage relationships, and even have legal consequences. That’s why, as Christians, it’s so important to take these warnings seriously and practice moderation if we choose to drink.

One powerful point that stood out in the video was this idea, paraphrased:

“People who drink need to be more serious about avoiding drunkenness than anyone else. Those who don’t drink don’t even have to worry about it. If you do drink, you’d better be profoundly serious about where the line is—because it’s a serious issue that can harm your relationship with God.”

That really hit home for me. It’s exactly why I choose to abstain. I don’t want to do anything that could damage my walk with the Lord or create a barrier between me and His presence. It’s just not worth it.