Smoking and drinking are common practices, but what does the Bible say about them? While Scripture doesn’t mention smoking, it does offer principles about caring for our bodies, avoiding drunkenness, and making wise decisions. Let’s explore what the Bible might suggest about these habits.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Perversion
What Does The Bible Say About Smoking And Drinking
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
This verse reminds us that our bodies are sacred, as they are temples of the Holy Spirit. As Christians, we are called to honor God with our bodies, which includes taking care of our physical health. Smoking and excessive drinking can harm our bodies and go against this command to honor God.
We should strive to keep our bodies pure and free from harmful substances that can damage our health. Choosing to abstain from smoking and excessive drinking is a way to demonstrate our commitment to honoring God with our bodies.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
This verse warns against the dangers of alcohol abuse. Wine and beer, when consumed in excess, can lead to foolishness, poor decision-making, and a departure from wisdom. As Christians, we are encouraged to seek wisdom and discernment, and excessive drinking can hinder our ability to do so.
We should exercise self-control and moderation when it comes to alcohol consumption. Instead of being led astray by the allure of excessive drinking, we should strive to make wise choices and live in a manner that is pleasing to God.
Ephesians 5:18
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
This verse highlights the contrast between being filled with the Spirit of God and being intoxicated with alcohol. Getting drunk not only leads to excessive and irresponsible behavior but also takes our focus away from being filled with the Holy Spirit.
As Christians, we are called to be continually filled with the Spirit, allowing Him to guide and empower us. This involves making choices that align with His will, including avoiding excessive alcohol consumption that can hinder our spiritual growth and relationship with God.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and having a clear mind. The devil is always looking for opportunities to tempt and devour us, and being under the influence of mind-altering substances such as alcohol can make us more susceptible to his attacks.
By staying sober-minded, we can better discern the schemes of the enemy and resist his temptations. It is essential to be alert and maintain a sound mind to protect ourselves spiritually and make wise choices that align with God’s will.
Romans 14:21
“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”
This verse teaches us to consider the well-being of others and not just ourselves. If our smoking or drinking habits create a stumbling block for others, causing them to be led astray or struggle in their faith, it is better to abstain from those behaviors out of love and concern for their spiritual welfare.
We should strive to be mindful of the impact our actions can have on others and make choices that promote unity, love, and the building up of the body of Christ.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
This verse highlights the characteristics produced by the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. One of these characteristics is self-control, which is vital in resisting harmful habits such as smoking and excessive drinking.
By allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us, we can develop self-discipline and make choices that align with God’s standards. Choosing to prioritize our health and well-being by refraining from smoking and excessive drinking is a manifestation of the self-control produced by the Spirit within us.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”
This verse encourages us to avoid excessive consumption of wine or food. Overindulgence in alcohol leads to drunkenness, and overeating can lead to gluttony, both of which can have negative consequences on our physical health, finances, and overall well-being.
We should exercise moderation and self-restraint, practicing wise stewardship over our bodies and resources. By avoiding excess, we can maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle that honors God.
Luke 21:34
“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.”
This verse cautions us against the dangers of becoming consumed by worldly pleasures and sinful behaviors such as carousing and drunkenness. These distractions can weigh down our hearts and keep us from living with a sense of alertness and readiness for the Lord’s return.
As followers of Christ, we are called to be sober-minded, focused on living in obedience to God’s will and ready for His coming. By avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and the distractions of worldly pleasures, we can live lives that are prepared and attentive to the things of God.
Proverbs 23:29-35
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Do not gaze at wine when it is red when it sparkles in the cup when it goes down smoothly! In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. ‘They hit me,’ you will say, ‘but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?'”
This passage vividly portrays the consequences of excessive drinking. It describes the woes, sorrows, and strife that result from indulging in alcohol. It warns of the deceptive allure and allure of wine, which may seem pleasant and enticing at the moment but ultimately leads to destruction, confusion, and addiction.
We should heed this cautionary tale and avoid the path of excessive drinking, knowing that it brings more harm than good. By choosing sobriety and self-control, we can protect ourselves from the detrimental effects of addiction and maintain a clear mind.
Isaiah 5:11
“Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.”
This verse highlights the folly of those who prioritize alcohol and become consumed by excessive drinking. It condemns the pursuit of alcohol to the point where it becomes the focus of one’s life, causing a disruption in daily routines and leading to a lack of self-control.
We should be diligent in resisting the temptation to make alcohol the center of our lives or turn to it as an escape or source of false comfort. Instead, we should seek true fulfillment and satisfaction in our relationship with God.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
This verse warns against the deceptive nature of alcohol. It portrays wine as a mocker and beer as a brawler, indicating that they can lead individuals astray and provoke actions or behaviors that are unwise.
We should exercise wisdom and discernment when it comes to alcohol consumption, recognizing its potential to lead us away from God’s path and hinder our ability to make sound decisions. By choosing to be wise and abstaining from excessive drinking, we can avoid the snares and pitfalls associated with alcohol abuse.
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age.”
This verse emphasizes the transformative power of God’s grace in our lives. Through His grace, we are empowered to resist ungodly desires, including excessive drinking and smoking, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives.
As recipients of God’s grace, we are called to reflect His character and live according to His standards. By relying on His grace and allowing it to shape our choices, we can overcome temptations and walk in obedience to Him.
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
This passage lists several sinful behaviors, including drunkenness, as acts of the flesh. It emphasizes that those who live in such a manner, indulging in excessive drinking and other ungodly actions, will not inherit the kingdom of God.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a manner that is pleasing to God, abstaining from behaviors that dishonor Him. By avoiding excessive drinking and striving to live in alignment with God’s Word, we can ensure that our lives are marked by righteousness rather than the acts of the flesh.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds us that everything we do should be done for the glory of God, including our eating and drinking habits. When it comes to smoking and drinking, we should assess whether these actions bring glory to God or hinder our growth in faith.
If smoking and excessive drinking become stumbling blocks or hinder our ability to honor God, it is important to reevaluate our choices. By aligning our actions with the desire to bring glory to God, we can live in a way that reflects our commitment to Him.
Proverbs 21:17
“Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.”
This verse warns against prioritizing pleasure and indulgence, including the love for wine. It cautions that those who seek after pleasure and overindulge in worldly desires will not find true riches or fulfillment.
As Christians, our focus should be on seeking God’s kingdom and prioritizing spiritual riches over worldly pleasures. By avoiding excessive drinking and pursuing a balanced and disciplined lifestyle, we can align ourselves with God’s desire for us to find true wealth in Him.
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”
In this verse, Jesus warns against the dangers of greed and the pursuit of material possessions. He emphasizes that true life does not come from having an abundance of possessions, including excessive quantities of alcohol or smoking materials.
Instead of seeking fulfillment in worldly pleasures, we should prioritize the pursuit of a meaningful and purposeful life centered on loving God and loving others. By refraining from excessive drinking and smoking, we can avoid the pitfalls of greed and focus on the things that truly matter in life.
Proverbs 23:32
“In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.”
This verse portrays the destructive nature of excessive drinking. It compares the consequences of indulging in alcohol to being bitten by a snake or poisoned by a viper. These images highlight the harmful effects of excessive drinking on our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
By recognizing the dangers associated with alcohol abuse, we can make wise choices to protect ourselves from its poisonous grip. Instead of allowing ourselves to be ensnared, we should prioritize our health and well-being, freeing ourselves from the bondage of excessive drinking.
1 Timothy 3:3
“Not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.”
This verse provides guidelines for those aspiring to be leaders in the church. It highlights the importance of avoiding drunkenness and instead exemplifying qualities such as gentleness, peacefulness, and self-control.
Regardless of our roles within the church, we are all called to exhibit these virtues in our lives. By refraining from excessive drinking, we can better reflect the character of Christ and be examples of godliness to those around us.
Proverbs 20:21
“An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed at the end.”
This verse speaks to the consequences of impatience and impulsive actions. In the context of smoking and drinking, it warns against prematurely partaking in harmful habits that can have long-term negative effects on our health and well-being.
We should exercise patience and wisdom, understanding the importance of making choices that will be beneficial in the long run. By refraining from smoking and excessive drinking, we can safeguard our health and avoid the regret that may come from prematurely indulging in harmful behaviors.
Matthew 24:49-51
“The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
This passage shares the parable of the unfaithful servant who fails to meet his master’s expectations. It warns of the severe consequences for those who neglect their responsibilities and indulge in sinful behaviors, such as excessive drinking, instead of being watchful and faithful.
As followers of Christ, we are called to be vigilant, preparing ourselves for His return and faithfully carrying out the tasks He has entrusted to us. By avoiding behaviors that go against His teachings, such as excessive drinking, we can be prepared and ready to give an account of our lives when He returns.
Proverbs 23:19-21
“Listen, my son, and be wise, and set your heart on the right path: do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”
This passage advises against joining the company of those who indulge in excessive drinking and overeating. It cautions that such behaviors can lead to financial ruin, as well as physical and emotional deprivation.
Instead of following the path of excess, we should seek wisdom and self-control. By making choices that align with moderation and balance, we can avoid the negative consequences associated with excessive drinking and prioritize a life that is marked by discipline and sound judgment.
Proverbs 31:4-5
“It is not for kings, Lemuel— it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.”
In this passage, King Lemuel’s mother advises against the consumption of excessive alcohol by those in positions of authority. It warns of the potential for leaders to forget their responsibilities and neglect the welfare of those under their care when under the influence of alcohol.
This principle can be applied to all believers, as we are called to be influencers and ambassadors for Christ. By choosing to abstain from excessive drinking, we can maintain clarity of mind and fulfill our responsibilities to God and others with integrity and compassion.
Isaiah 56:12
“Come,’ each one cries, ‘let me get wine! Let us drink our fill of beer! And tomorrow will be like today, or even far better.”
This verse depicts a society that indulges in excessive drinking and seeks worldly pleasures without considering the consequences. It portrays a lack of regard for the future and a hedonistic mindset focused solely on immediate gratification.
As Christians, we are called to have a different perspective. Rather than chasing after temporary pleasures, we are to prioritize the things of eternal value. By refraining from excessive drinking, we can demonstrate our commitment to living for God’s kingdom and investing in what truly matters.
1 Corinthians 5:11
“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.”
This verse instructs believers to avoid associating with individuals who claim to be fellow believers but persist in unrepentant sinful behaviors, including drunkenness. The purpose of this instruction is to maintain the integrity of the church and challenge those living in disobedience to repent and turn back to God.
By refraining from close fellowship with those who persist in excessive drinking, we can uphold the values and standards of the Christian community and encourage others to live in accordance with God’s Word.