Proverbs 20:1 AMP “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a riotous brawler; And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.“
Proverbs 31:4 AMP “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, It is not for kings to drink wine, Or for rulers to desire strong drink,“
In the old days, there was not a plentiful abundance of mind-altering substances like weed, nicotine, cheap wine, prescription drugs, smoking crack, and the likes. But for the English Bible, they termed the word “wine” and used it generically. And those who have not read the whole bible nor know the counsel of the whole Word, will only search out what they want to see so they may continue in nonsense.
We are the sons and daughters of the Most High King destined to be kings and queens reigning on the earth and living an abundant life. Or we can be bottom feeders because toilets are needed in a house.
The Bible says in a palace, there are vessels (utensils) to be used for honor and for things that are not important. Those made for honor are made from gold and silver while the unimportant are made from wood and plastic. But how can we be used for higher works for our King? The Bible says it is for those who cleanse themselves. What does that mean? The Bible says we are washed by the Word which means we need to read the whole Bible consistently and apply it as we follow the Commandments of the King. Then HE will use us greatly as an important person. But if we keep drinking and smoking crack or the likes, then you can still be used. But you may be used as a cat litter box and still feel important as you are high and deluded.
2 Timothy 2:20-21 AMPC “But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also [utensils] of wood and earthenware, and some for honorable and noble use and some for menial and ignoble use.
21 So whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separates himself from contact with contaminating and corrupting influences] will [then himself] be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes, consecrated and profitable to the Master, fit and ready for any good work.“
To cleanse ourselves is not only to come to know the Word but it is to choose to run from all forms of evil.
Let us not delude ourselves.
Pastor Steve Kim