Keep a Clear Mind

Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. (Proverbs 23:29-32)

Proverbs 23:29-32 begins with a cautionary tone, explaining how the life of a person who ends up with woe, sorrow, and endless strife starts. This person has nonsensical babbling, wounds that came from nowhere, red eyes, and a heavy heart. What type of person has this as their future? It’s the person who seeks intoxication that comes from alcohol, drugs, or other things. Even if those things are legal where you live, that does not mean it is the will of God for you to consume them. The Bible tells us we must have 100% of our faculties about us all the time.

Proverbs tells us the consequences of becoming intoxicated are like a bite that pierces and a sting that lingers. It's a reminder that what starts as intoxication leads to enduring pain. I know people who got drunk or high and did things they never would have done sober and ended up in jail. They paid a huge price for their moment of intoxication. I also know others who continue to engage in alcohol and intoxicants despite the problems and pain they cause. They exist as slaves to their intoxicant.

As mature believers, we should stay clear of substances that cloud our clarity and spiritual discernment. Do not give the devil any place in your life.

You never know when a serious decision will need to be made. Many times, it’s when you least expect it. That is why you need to have a clear mind and clear discernment about you all the time. Refuse to allow anything to take your ability to focus on what the Holy Spirit is always saying to you.