No. 359 - Overcoming Drunkenness and Revelries through Self-Control

The Consequences of Fleshly Desires

Overcoming Drunkenness and Revelries through Self-Control

Ephesians 5:18

"And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit." 

Prayer 

Dear Lord, I ask for Your wisdom and strength to resist the temptations of drunkenness and excess in my life. Help me to seek Your Spirit and live a life that honours You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background 

Ephesians 5 speaks about how Christians should live as children of light, rejecting the works of darkness. Paul urges believers to be wise, redeeming the time and understanding the will of the Lord. Verse 18, in particular, contrasts being filled with wine, leading to reckless living, with being filled with the Holy Spirit, which leads to self-control and a righteous life. Paul’s message to the Ephesian church is clear: drunkenness and revelries lead to sinful behaviour, but those who are led by the Spirit live a life that pleases God. Today's message concludes this week's theme "The Consequences of Fleshly Desires."

Be Encouraged 

Drunkenness is often portrayed as a way to escape reality, but it leads to bad decisions and broken relationships. Imagine a person who goes to a party, gets drunk, and says hurtful things to their friends. The next morning, they wake up with regret and shame. That’s the danger of allowing alcohol or wild living to control our actions. But Paul tells us there is a better way—being filled with the Spirit of God. When we are filled with the Spirit, we are led by love, peace, and self-control. This allows us to make good decisions and build healthy, godly relationships.

Application 

Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” Galatians 5:22-23 teaches that the fruit of the Spirit includes self-control. In life, we may face situations where alcohol or partying is tempting, such as a friend's celebration or a night out. But it’s in these moments that we must choose wisely. Instead of giving in to excess, we should seek self-control, asking the Holy Spirit to guide us. The path of drunkenness leads to regret, but the way of the Spirit leads to peace and a clear conscience.

Invitation 

If you have not yet given your life to Christ, today is the day to begin a new life in Him, free from the chains of excess and sin. Visit any nearby Church of Christ, where you can be helped to obey the gospel of Christ through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of your sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). The Lord will add you to His church, where you will continue to grow in your knowledge of God and put His commands into practice (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Do not delay—let God fill you with His Spirit and help you break free from the chains of worldly living. Share this message with others so they too may experience the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Concluding Prayer 

Thank You, Father, for teaching me the importance of self-control and the dangers of drunkenness. Help me to always seek the filling of Your Spirit so that I may live a life that honours You. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day. 

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana


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