“Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.”
Solomon wants those who tend to over indulge in wine to consider the dangers they face. We have touched on this, perhaps it’s better stated that he has, multiple times throughout his writing. He is very aware of the lives destroyed by misuse and abuse of alcohol. In a different vein I want to address those who never over indulge or like me those who do not drink. Because of the regular reference in this book and throughout scripture to the dangers of alcohol the church can become a bit judgmental of those with this struggle. An alcoholic friend of Philip Yancey once said to him, “When I’m late to church, people turn around and stare at me with frowns of disapproval. I get the clear message that I’m not as responsible as they are. When I’m late to AA, the meeting comes to a halt and everyone jumps up to hug and welcome me. They realize that my lateness may be a sign that I almost didn’t make it. When I show up, it proves that my desperate need for them won out over my desperate need for alcohol.” Today avoid the dangers of alcohol but maybe just as importantly avoid the potential danger of judging those who have that struggle. #BeTheEdge
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Jesus
