here is my view on drinking. getting drunk is a sin. i believe that everybody here would agree with that. drinking itself, though, is not a sin. when you get drunk, you lose control. both the things you do and the loss of control itself is sinful. if you are going to drink, then you need to know your limits, and make sure you stick to them. if you can't do that, then don't do it at all. don't ever put yourself in a situation you can't handle. try having a drink at home. then two. see what is your limit. drink slowly so you will feel the affects as they come and can judge when you are feeling tipsy.
on another note, you should also watch who you drink around. as christians, we are called to not only look out for our own well being, but also that of our neighbors. that doesn't mean you have to pay their bills and take care of their kids and do everything for those around you, but it does mean you put them before youself. if you know somebody that has trouble with drinking is with you, then don't drink. don't even suggest it, as you will tempt them. also, i would suggest not drinking at bars. the reason for that is this: even though you may be able to control youself, others will not see it that way. if they know you are christian and see you drinking at a bar, they will probably assume you are there to get drunk. its just a steriotype. that doesn't make it right, but you should care about setting a good example. sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the good of others. have a drink with a meal, or maybe have a beer with some friends after work, but don't go out to get drunk. encourage those around you, christian and non-christian alike, and you will set a good example for others.
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