God, through His servant Paul, warns that drunkenness is a work of the flesh, and no drunkard will inherit His Kingdom. Proverbs 23:31 advises not to look upon wine when it is red and fermenting, as it can be dangerous, even deadly, due to poisonous gases that have caused winery workers to asphyxiate and drown in vats. Wine is presented as a blessing from God to the Israelites for obedience, with the promise of abundance, while disobedience would result in the loss of their wine and vineyards as a curse. God commands wine to be used in Israel's drink offerings and tithes, and authorizes its purchase for celebration during His feasts. In the New Testament, drunkenness and excess are condemned, yet neither Jesus nor His apostles declare moderate consumption of alcohol as wrong. Jesus Himself drank wine, was called a winebibber, and promised to drink it again with His disciples in His Father's kingdom. His first miracle was turning water into fermented wine at Cana, and He recognized the qualities of good wine. Paul, while condemning excess, advised Timothy to use a little wine for his stomach ailments. God gave wine and alcoholic beverages for enjoyment and to teach proper use through wisdom and self-control, though abstinence is wisest for those with low tolerance or alcoholism. Only the misuse of alcohol is considered sin.

Alcohol consumption is a significant part of many celebrations, with beer, wine, champagne, and liquors flowing freely, often leading to inebriation among a large percentage of revelers. Statistics reveal that Americans drink just under ten liters of alcohol per person annually, a considerable amount compared to many countries, though below the highest consumers. Worldwide, men tend to drink about three times more than women, showing a widespread affinity for alcoholic beverages. This frequent drinking often results in harm to individuals and others, with some becoming dependent and suffering lifelong consequences of addiction. Scripture does not treat drunkenness or alcohol addiction as a disease but as a moral failing, a sin. Drinking alcohol in moderation, however, is not condemned. Wine is described as something that cheers both God and men, and it is included in sacred rituals and allowed for enjoyment during feasts. There is even advice to use a little wine for health reasons. The issue arises when alcohol is consumed excessively, as even a small amount can loosen inhibitions, and more can impair judgment, increasing the likelihood of committing other sins such as lying, theft, hatred, violence, and sexual immorality. The Bible recommends sobriety, meaning never allowing alcohol to impair righteous judgment, even slightly. Sobriety is linked to self-control or self-mastery, a virtue described as spiritual health and a correct way of reasoning, expressed through inner equilibrium and moderation in character and conduct. This self-control is rare in a world that often glorifies abandoning oneself to the moment, as seen in advertisements and media portraying alcohol-fueled, uninhibited behavior as desirable. Scripture, however, emphasizes the importance of always keeping the mind under control, following the example of Jesus Christ, who never relinquished control over Himself, even in challenging circumstances. Emulating this self-mastery is essential for living up to God's standards and achieving the ultimate reward in His Kingdom.

Alcohol is one of the many substances to which countless individuals find themselves addicted, contributing to the broader issue of dependency that plagues humanity. While God does not condemn the drinking of alcohol, He strongly advises healthy self-control to prevent succumbing to its effects, including addiction. Solomon warns in Proverbs 20:1 that wine is a mocker and strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise. In Proverbs 23:19-21, he cautions against associating with winebibbers, noting that the drunkard will come to poverty. He further describes the debilitating effects of alcohol in Proverbs 23:29-35 and advises in Proverbs 31:4-5 that it is not for kings or princes to drink wine, lest they forget the law and pervert justice. This principle underscores the need for clear-headedness in positions of authority and responsibility, especially for God's called-out ones in training for roles in His Kingdom. The Bible advocates moderation governed by self-control rather than total abstinence, suggesting that those with weak self-control or a predisposition toward alcoholism should abstain to avoid addiction. Failure to exercise self-control in consuming alcohol is considered a sin, as Paul states in I Corinthians 6:10 that drunkards will not inherit the Kingdom of God, listing drunkenness among the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:21. God views addictions like alcoholism as the result of sinful choices toward self-destruction, holding the individual responsible for each decision to indulge. The solution lies in self-control, listed as the final fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, requiring the difficult choice to resist cravings and flee temptation. God will provide help to overcome if the desire, dedication, and determination to repent are present, supporting the arduous process of building character to control urges. Paul emphasizes in II Timothy 1:7 that the Spirit given by God is one of power, love, and a sound mind, attributes essential to overcoming addiction. In I Corinthians 6:12, Paul asserts that while all things may be lawful, he will not be brought under the power of any, highlighting the importance of self-control to reflect God's nature and live an abundant life.

The United States is of major concern to the world's nations because they witness America's profligate spending and realize that their economic futures are precariously linked to the American economic system. Americans cannot discipline themselves to go without, clinging to portable computers, high-speed internet, smart phones, movies, television, music downloads, pets, booze, coffee, and education. These indeed have become America's idols.